Course Overview
The Syracuse University Summer Choral Institute offers an intensive and inspiring musical experience for young vocalists entering 10th grade through completed 12th grade, combining the rich choral tradition of Syracuse University with innovative teaching methods in a collaborative learning environment. Over the course of five days, participants will work with distinguished faculty from the Setnor School of Music to develop vocal techniques, ensemble skills, and musical interpretation through a diverse repertoire spanning classical, contemporary, and world music traditions. Students will participate in daily rehearsals, masterclasses, and elective activities while exploring the beautiful Syracuse University campus and forming lasting friendships with fellow musicians.
This transformative program culminates in a public concert performance at the historic Hendricks Chapel, where participants will showcase their growth as individual artists and as members of an ensemble. Beyond the musical experience, students will gain insight into college-level music study through workshops on entrepreneurship, audition preparation, sight-reading, and college applications, while also enjoying recreational activities and experiencing campus life. The course welcomes singers of all backgrounds and skill levels, from those considering music as a college major to those simply passionate about choral singing, creating an inclusive community where every voice is valued and nurtured.
All students who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion and have the opportunity to request a Syracuse University noncredit transcript.
Learning Objectives
- Develop proper singing technique, including proper breath support, tone production, and healthy singing practices.
- Enhance sight-reading abilities and music literacy skills.
- Cultivate ensemble skills, including blend, balance, intonation, and responsive listening, within a large choral setting.
- Expand musical knowledge and cultural awareness through the study of diverse choral repertoire from different time periods and global traditions.
- Build confidence in solo and ensemble performance through masterclasses, sectionals, and the final concert presentation.
- Foster leadership and collaboration skills through peer mentoring opportunities and small group activities.
- Explore pathways to collegiate music study and potential careers in music through faculty mentorship and campus immersion experiences.
Course Information
Course Prefix and Number: TBD
Format: On Campus (at Syracuse University)
Eligibility: Students must be of rising high school sophomore, junior, or senior status – or a 2026 high school graduate.
Credit: Noncredit
Grading: Pass/Fail
Cost:
- Residential: $2,795
- Commuter: $2,309
Program rates are subject to change and will be approved by the board of trustees. Discounts and scholarships are also available.
Program Information
Summer College – On Campus:
Experience what college is really like: take a college-level course, live in a residence hall, have meals with friends in a dining hall, and participate in activities and events on campus.
Course Dates and Details
| Program | Course Dates | Synchronous Class Time (Eastern Time) | Credit/Noncredit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer College – On Campus | 1-Week Session II: Sunday, July 19 – Friday, July 24, 2026 | MTWThF; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Noncredit |
To see if this course is ‘open,’ refer to the full course catalog.
Required Supplies
Students will need to bring a nice pair of jeans for their end-of-course concert.
Typical Day
Tentative Schedule
Monday:
- Registration/T-shirts
- Voicing/audition
- Mini rehearsal
- Community building
- Lunch
- Electives
- Full program rehearsal
Tuesday – Thursday:
- Rotating seminar (entrepreneurship, admissions, audition prep, composer guest speaker Zoom)
- Rehearsal
- Community building
- Lunch
- Electives
- Full program rehearsal
Friday:
- Photo in JMA Dome
- Afternoon elective showcase
- Night showcase/performance
When class is over, and on weekends, students can look forward to various Summer College – On Campus activities to meet and connect with other students! Check out our On Campus Experience page for more information!
Faculty Bios
Wendy Moy
Wendy K. Moy is an associate professor in the College of Visual and Performing Arts and the School of Education at Syracuse University. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in music education, conducting, rehearsal techniques, and choral literature and directs the Oratorio Society in the Setnor School of Music.
Prior to joining Syracuse University, Moy served as associate professor of music at Connecticut College (2013–2020), where she was the director of choral activities and head of the music education program. She also held teaching and conducting positions at Tacoma Community College, the University of Washington and Seattle Pacific University. She taught orchestra, choir and jazz choir in the Edmonds School District (1999–2010). Her ensembles have performed at the Northwest Music Educators and Washington Music Educators Association Conferences.
Kyra Stahr
Kyra Stahr is a visionary conductor, educator and vocalist who has built her career empowering singers to embrace their potential with confidence and fostering community through song. She believes in the transformative power of choral music and leads ensembles with authenticity, courage and determination.
She currently serves as assistant teaching professor at Syracuse University, where she conducts the premier treble ensemble, Crouse Chorale, and teaches graduate choral conducting, undergraduate conducting, Advanced Rehearsal Techniques and courses in choral literature and voice. Stahr is also a D.M.A. candidate in choral conducting at the University of Miami, a conducting fellow with Spire Chamber Ensemble and assistant conductor of Seraphic Fire. Her previous appointments include graduate teaching assistant and instructor at the University of Miami and associate conductor of the Master Chorale of South Florida.