THE MELODIOUS ACCORD FELLOWS PROGRAMS

THE MELODIOUS ACCORD FELLOWS PROGRAMS are based on the philosophy and teaching of Alice Parker. Drawing on her experiences as a composer, conductor and teacher, she is able to unite these disciplines into challenging and rewarding classes.

These programs are open to mid-career professional composers, conductors, performers, church musicians and others passionate about choral music.  Now in their twentieth season, they have been described as "post-doctoral study for those who do not wish to specialize". 

Three of these programs are offered at Alice Parker’s home in western Massachusetts:  Melody Studies is an introduction to vocal music based on Alice Parker’s book The Anatomy of Melody and explores what happens when we sing with each other.  Teaching Melody Through Song Leading is an in-depth study of song-leading, including melodic analysis, repertoire, planning SINGS, and hands-on practice.  The Composers Workshop gathers a small group of lyric composers to present examples of their work and discuss choral composition and arranging with Ms. Parker and their colleagues. 

At these programs in Hawley, MA, the Fellows meet daily at Ms. Parker's studio, and share many meals and informal social events.  Nestled at the edge of a state forest, four miles from the nearest town, Singing Brook Farm offers a comfortable and ideal retreat from the pressures of professional life.  The class size is small to allow maximum individual involvement.  Ms. Parker enjoys a diverse group: your musical experience is more important than your level of academic study.  We encourage you to apply early: if a class fills up, we will try to schedule a second session.  Minimum class size is 4, maximum, 8.

Melodious Accord also offers Score Study in New York, a five day program of intensive score study in Manhattan for choral musicians who wish to make the page come to life.  Alice Parker shares her experience with many styles of music and discusses the process from the composer’s perspective.  There is also time to explore theater, museums, opera, Broadway shows, or restaurants. Minimum class size, 4.

 Please note that Melody Studies and Song Leading are NOT offered summer 2010 but we invite you to consider our expanded Score Study in New York in January 2011 which will have elements of both of these programs.

2010-11  SCHEDULE

Score Study in New York                               Jan. 17-21, 2011

Melody Studies                                                NOT OFFERED SUMMER 2010

Teaching Melody Through Song Leading    NOT OFFERED SUMMER 2010 

 Composers Workshop, in Hawley, MA          Oct. 24-31, 2010