Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a fellow and an associate in the program?
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.
As an associate, do I need to bring my own symphony orchestra session scores?
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.
As a fellow, do I need to bring my own chamber orchestra session scores?
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.
How many fellows and associates are accepted each year?
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.
What does a typical day look like for fellows and associates at the institute?
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.
What are the ensemble configurations for each session?
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.
How are applicants accepted into the Fellows and Associates Program? What are the criteria for selection?
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.
What repertoire will be covered during the sessions?
FELLOWS AND ASSOCIATES 2026 REPERTOIRE
STRING ORCHESTRA SESSION July 6 - 9
Mozart: Divertimento K. 136
Arensky: Variations on a Theme by Tchaikovsky
Dvorak: Serenade op. 22
Manny Alvarez: Permutations
please email Mr. Alvarez to receive the score: manycon@gmail.com
CHAMBER ORCHESTRA SESSION July 10 -13
Beethoven: Symphony No. 7, op. 92
Prokofiev: Classical Symphony, op. 25
Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4, op.90
SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA SESSION July 14 - 17
Brahms: Symphony No. 4, op. 98
Stravinsky: Firebird Suite 1919
Weber: Der Freischutz Overture
Edward Hart: Three Latin Rivers
please email Dr. Hart to receive the score: harte@cofc.edu