Beth Willer, Director of Choral Studies at the Peabody Institute, leads music by two ground-breaking British icons. Dame Ethel Smyth’s exuberant, almost operatic Mass in D was a work ahead of its time — as was Smyth herself. Britten’s Rejoice in the Lamb, orchestrated by Imogen Holst, is a kaleidoscopic expression of faith with a twist. The fearless individuality of both works offer a showcase for bold and joyful choral singing with full orchestra.
Ethel Smyth: Mass in D
Benjamin Britten: Rejoice in the Lamb, orch Holst
The Smyth is sung in Latin. The Britten is sung in English.
Noted for her “directorial command” and “technical expertise,” GRAMMY-nominated conductor Beth Willer is recognized as a bold, 21st-century artist with her finger on the pulse of the vocal ensemble art. As Founder and Artistic Director, Beth Willer has led Lorelei Ensemble since 2007 to become recognized as one of the country’s most highly regarded vocal ensembles. A champion of contemporary music, Willer has collaborated with composers from the U.S. and abroad, leading Lorelei and other ensembles under her leadership in...
Read Full BioTuition includes: 7 nights lodging based on shared suite occupancy, all meals, welcome reception and post-concert party, rehearsals, sectionals, and classes with our professional faculty, practice audio files (sent in March), and a fully produced concert with professional orchestra in an excellent venue.
Dormitory housing is in modern air-conditioned apartments with private single bedrooms with a shared suite-style bathroom and lounge. Elevator access is available. Parking near the dormitory is included with tuition. A commuter option is available for local singers and for those who wish to stay off campus. The campus meal plan is included in all tuitions to encourage shared learning and social experiences.
All meals from Sunday dinner through the following Sunday breakfast are included. UMass Amherst has won multiple national rankings for best university food service. Dining can meet the needs of vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan diets.
This campus location requires a significant amount of walking between venues. Golf cart transportation will be available to assist at scheduled rehearsal and event times.
Walking distance between the dorm and dining is approximately 0.4 mile. Distance between dining and performance facility is approximately 0.5 mile.
Dormitory and dining venues are fully accessible. The performance facility is accessible but presents some inconveniences. Please discuss mobility issues with us in advance.
Travel to Amherst is not included. Hartford’s Bradley International Airport is approximately 40 miles south.
We recommend trip insurance, as BCI fees are not refundable after our published tuition due dates (see our cancellation policy). You are free to purchase travel insurance from any provider you wish. We have partnered with Yonder Travel Insurance to quote, sort, filter, and compare travel insurance policies from all of the major US providers. They also offer customer service by phone and email to help you select coverage. BCI will receive a 10% commission when you click this link:
We will rehearse and perform at UMass Amherst’s Fine Arts Center.
