Apprentice Application

Berkshire Choral International’s competitive Frank Nemhauser Apprentice Program is designed for career-track singers, choral conductors, and collaborative pianists enrolled in undergraduate or advanced degree programs.

All Apprentice Program applicants should submit:

- a one-page cover letter addressing how participation in the Apprentice Program furthers your specific professional goals. Please also list which week(s) you wish to attend. Apprentices may apply for Amherst, Denver, and/or Tallinn. The Apprentice program is not available for Lenox, Portland, or Beverly.
- a current résumé or CV that includes musical and educational accomplishments
- a letter of recommendation from a teacher or music professional
- an audio or video link of 3 contrasting art songs or arias sung in at least two languages. All applicants are expected to sing in the chorus and must provide vocal recordings.
- The program includes free tuition, sheet music and lessons/coaching, housing and meals (a total value between $2800 and $4400), and a reimbursed travel stipend (currently $800 for domestic weeks and $1900 for international weeks).

Conductor apprentices should submit a video link of a rehearsal or two (no more than 20 minutes total). A performance link may be included, as well, but is not required.

Collaborative pianist apprentices should include an audio or video link of three contrasting pieces from recent recitals, along with a brief, honest assessment of sight-reading skills in the cover letter.

All applicants must meet BCI’s current participation policies.

Letters of recommendation should be emailed directly by those who write them to Dr. Sean Taylor, Director of Music, at staylor@berkshirechoral.org.

Submit your application online:

https://bcireg-appr.campbrainregistration.com

Questions about the programs can be directed to Sean Taylor, Director of Music.

Questions about the application process can be directed to Stephen Hager, Chorister Services Director.

Due date is February 1, 2026.