Artist Apprenticeship Program


The Artist Apprenticeship Program began in 1998 and now includes both vocal and instrumental students. Apprentices join Albany Pro Musica for specific concert performances and are chosen based on the results of their most recent NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) ratings and recommendations from their music teacher. Each student is paired with an APM singer “mentor” who guides them through the rehearsal process and performance. There is no cost to the students involved.

The 2012 -2013 Artist Apprenticeship Program involves a number of talented vocal students, some of whom will join us for our September concert “The 150th Anniversary Concert for St. Joseph’s”, some who will join us for our October performance of Bach’s “Magnificat” and Corigliano’s “Fern Hill”, and yet more who will join us for our May performance of Bach’s “St. Matthew Passion”!
 
This year’s apprentices are:

Soprano

  • Kathleen Askew – Ravena Coeymans Selkirk High School
  • Marisa Curcio* – Ballston Spa High School
  • Casie Girvin* – Guilderland High School
  • Lindsey Howard* – Gloversville High School
  • Annabel Lewis* – Shaker High School
  • Skylar Mead - Guilderland High School
  • Lauren Silberstein – Shenendehowa High School

Alto

  • Alaina Boyle – Shaker High School
  • Shannon Rafferty – Shaker High School
  • Rebecca Stacy - Niskayuna High School

Bass

  • Michael Galvin – Shaker High School
  • Michael Janower* – Guilderland High School

 
* – these students are also members of the prestigious Capital District Youth Chorale.
 

 

In Their Own Words – Our Apprentices Speak


Being an apprentice has been the most musically challenging thing I’ve ever done, but it has also been the most enriching. When I first saw that music, I was, to be completely honest, terrified. There were so many notes, and they all happened so fast! But now being able to sing what was once such an intimidating piece, gives me such a wonderful sense of satisfaction. Being the youngest person in the choir (the only junior apprentice among all seniors) also gave me the chance to learn from such wonderful and experienced people. It has also given me such an appreciation for classical music and all it has to offer. I can honestly say I will remember my apprenticeship fondly for the rest of my life.~~~Rebecca Stacy, Niskayuna High School

 

From A Parent’s Perspective

“Ever since Lindsey was a little girl, her father and I have told her to find her passion and follow it. By the time she was in second grade, she knew she wanted to be a music teacher (she offered to take her elementary teacher’s place upon retirement).

As you may know, especially in light of the recent news articles, there are not a lot of opportunities in Gloversville around the arts. We live in an environment where most folks are scrambling to get by day by day. The school district has made some drastic cuts over the past several years, and sadly, music and art are always the first to go.

We were thrilled when Lindsey was selected as an artist apprentice with APM. APM has given her an opportunity to learn and experience chorale excellence that she would otherwise not have had. She was paired with a music education teacher, so not only has she had the amazing experience of singing with an adult, professional choir, her mentor is someone who can provide real life experience around Lindsey’s chosen career path.

Lastly, Dr. Janower is a man who obviously is following his passion. It is an invaluable lesson to Lindsey to be able to see and learn from a person who has so much love and passion for the same profession as she.

We are truly thankful she has had this opportunity and are hoping she can apply again next year.

Thanks much!”
~ Therese Howard, Gloversville

 

A Word of Thanks

We are grateful to the dedicated and talented music teachers in our area high schools, who support Albany Pro Musica’s Artist Apprentice program by sending us such wonderful and gifted students. This year’s thanks go to these teachers:

  • Rae Jean Teeter – Guilderland High School
  • Karen Amedio – Shaker High School
  • Diane Warner – Capital District Youth Chorale
  • Christina Pizzino – Niskayuna High School
  • Michelle McLoughlin – Ravena Coeymans Selkirk High School
  • Heather Baird – Shenendehowa High School

Interested students should ask their choral teacher to contact Albany Pro Musica to discuss upcoming opportunities.