Dates: Fellows and Associates Program: July 6–18, 2025. Check-in and orientation occur on July 6, with classes beginning on July 7 at 9 AM. Discovery Program: July 9–18, 2025. Check-in and orientation occur on July 9, with classes beginning on July 10 at 9 AM. Conducting for Composers: July 6–11, 2025. Check-in and orientation occur on July 6, with classes beginning on July 7 at 9 AM. Location: All activities are held on the campus of the College of Charleston in historic Charleston, South Carolina..

FELLOWS AND ASSOCIATES 2025 REPERTOIRE STRING ORCHESTRA July 7-10 Barber Adagio for Strings Tchaikovsky Serenade, Op. 48, C Major Bartok Rumanian Dances (String Orchestra) Edward Hart 3 Gullah Tunes ​ CHAMBER ORCHESTRA July 11-14 Beethoven Symphony No. 4, Op. 60, B-Flat Major Mozart: 2 recitatives and arias from Marriage of Figaro, No. 19, 27 Bizet Symphony No. 1, C Major SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA July 15-18 The Barber of Seville Overture Dvorak Symphony No. 8, Op 88 G major Tchaikovsky Symphony No.2, Op. 29, D Major (Little Russian) Victoria Bond TBA

All students will conduct one movement per day, covering the entire repertoire. A detailed rehearsal schedule will be provided on the first day. Participants are expected to arrive on time with all necessary scores.

Participants should bring their conducting baton, scores, and any additional equipment needed for rehearsals. Cameras are also permitted.

We require a deposit of $900 to secure your spot in the program and expect it to be paid as soon as possible. Please contact us immediately if you are facing any complications with making the deposit, and we will do our best to assist you.

Camera Assistant Work-Study Program: The recipient will handle recording and editing videos of rehearsals and performances, manage a digital media library, and assist in live streaming events. This role is crucial for student feedback and creating high-quality content for our institute’s promotional activities. Social Media Work-Study Program: The social media fellow is responsible for daily posts across our platforms, creating a Facebook group chat for participants, and introducing participants via social media to build community and engagement. Student Coordinator Work-Study Program: This fellow will coordinate logistics such as carpooling, act as a liaison between participants and administration, and organize evening activities to enhance the overall experience of the participants. We offer a stipend of $300 per program for these roles.

Yes, scholarships may be available for orchestra players participating in the institute. This is determined on a case-by-case basis. Please email us at conductorsinstituteofsc@gmail.com to discuss your situation and explore scholarship opportunities.

Once accepted into the program, a deposit of $900 is required to secure your spot. The remaining balance of tuition must be paid in full by June 15. Please note that no refunds will be issued after July 1. For any questions or concerns about payments, feel free to contact us.

Fellows receive slightly more podium time than associates and are given the opportunity to conduct a concert with the symphony orchestra repertoire. Associates conduct a concert using the chamber orchestra repertoire. This distinction allows both roles to gain valuable conducting experience tailored to different ensemble sizes and complexities.

Yes, all fellows and associates are responsible for bringing the scores for the entire repertoire listed for their program. Please ensure you have all necessary music prepared and with you for the program.

Yes, all fellows and associates are responsible for bringing the scores for the entire repertoire listed for their program. Please ensure you have all necessary music prepared and with you for the program.

We aim to limit the number of fellows and associates to a total of 20 to ensure that concert opportunities are distributed equally among all participants.

Morning: Fellows and associates actively conduct during the orchestra rehearsals. This session is critical for practicing their conducting skills with a full ensemble and receiving real-time feedback from the orchestra players, instructors, and peers. Afternoon: They participate in critique sessions. These sessions are focused on reviewing the morning's rehearsals, where they receive detailed feedback and discuss various conducting techniques and interpretations. Late Afternoon: Fellows and associates attend special topics seminars. These seminars are designed to deepen their understanding of various aspects of music, conducting, and career development.

String Orchestra: Consists of a string quintet. Chamber Orchestra: Includes a double string quintet plus one of each wind instrument. Symphony Orchestra: Comprises two stands of each string instrument plus one of each wind instrument, percussion, and timpani.

Applicants are evaluated in monthly pools and divided into Fellows and Associates based on their qualifications, experience, and potential. Placement is determined by a combination of merit and program availability, with Fellows representing the most advanced participants. Since the number of Fellow spots is limited, early application is strongly encouraged for optimal placement, as the selection becomes more competitive as the program progresses. Each application is reviewed thoroughly to ensure a well-rounded cohort.

Not necessary but strongly recommended. All discovery students observe fellow and associate rehearsals in the morning. Following a score while observing the rehearsals will help you understand the music better.

Morning: Discovery students start their day by observing the fellow and associate rehearsals. This provides them with valuable insights into conducting techniques and ensemble management. Afternoon: They have their own conducting sessions with a string quartet. This hands-on experience allows them to apply the techniques they've observed and receive direct feedback. Late Afternoon: Discovery students attend special topics seminars. These seminars cover a variety of subjects relevant to conducting and music leadership, enhancing their overall educational experience at the institute.

The Discovery Program features a string quartet.

Please check back for the 2025 housing details.

Participants are responsible for their travel to and from Charleston. Guidance on local transportation options is available upon request. The student coordinator also arranges carpools when necessary.

Meals are not provided. Participants are responsible for their own meals, with numerous dining options within walking distance from the dormitories.

Downtown Charleston: Explore the historic streets, visit art galleries, and enjoy the vibrant local culture. Don't miss the iconic Charleston City Market for souvenirs and local crafts. Dining Options: Inexpensive Meals: Try local diners and food trucks for budget-friendly meals. Check out CofC's meal options here: https://cougarcard.cofc.edu/meal-plans/dining-locations.php Higher-scale Restaurants: For a fine dining experience, consider restaurants like Husk, FIG, or The Ordinary, known for their exquisite Southern cuisine. Here's a great list made by the local paper: https://charlestoncitypaper.com/2022/04/01/9-places-in-charleston-with-meals-under-15/ Beach Options: Take a day to unwind at one of the nearby beaches. Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island offer great spots for relaxation and are popular with locals and visitors alike.

July in Charleston, South Carolina, is hot and humid, with average high temperatures around 89°F (32°C) and lows typically around 74°F (23°C). It's also a month when afternoon thunderstorms are common due to the high humidity. Participants are advised to prepare for warm weather and occasional rain by bringing appropriate clothing, such as light, breathable fabrics and a rain jacket or umbrella.