Dear friends and family,

I have decided to blog about the next big adventure in my life... My seven weeks at the Chautauqua Summer Program in Chautauqua, NY. During my semester in Philadelphia I had the great pleasure, and honor, to have a few coachings with Don St. Pierre. He recommended auditioning for the program. So, I signed up for an audition and went to Chicago for a day to audition for Marlena Malas- she teaches at both Juilliard and Curtis. Mom and I took the train in to the city and she was a real trooper. To say I was nervous would be an understatement... I was petrified. I went in wearing my favorite audition dress and sang my guts out. It was the best audition I have ever had. Anyways, two months later (I thought I was going to die waiting) I found out that I was accepted into the program. :D The Chautauqua Institution Voice Department is a seven-week intensive educational program that seeks to offer the highest caliber of training for the young singer, 18 and older. Under the leadership of Marlena Kleinman Malas, a select group of singers study, coach and perform in an idyllic setting on the grounds of the Chautauqua Institution in western New York State. Voice lessons, role preparation, diction classes and vocal coachings are guided by a full-time staff of voice teachers, coaches and a resident stage director, along with numerous guest artists. At the start of the summer we will gather in McKnight Hall for the annual sing-in. Each singer presents one aria or song. Choose something you feel best showcases your voice. At the end of the summer, we will have the sing-out where students typically perform whatever they like. Pieces have included arias, songs, music theater, ensembles, comedy or sentimental favorites. We perform two operas each summer. The first opera will be in the open air 5000 seat Amphitheater with orchestra, staging, and minimal costumes and props. The second opera will be double cast and perform on two nights in Fletcher Hall with piano and full costume, props and lighting. Needless to say... This is a once in a lifetime opportunity! (Unless I make it in again next year) This summer I will sing and enjoy the beautiful grounds of Chautauqua. This blog will help the loved ones who have loved and supported me all these years keep in touch. I have had several requests for my address... So here it is: For letters: Sarah Ashcroft PO Box 992 Chautauqua, NY 14722 For packages: Sarah Ashcroft 77 Hedding Avenue Chautauqua, NY 14722 Please let me know if you have any questions or words of advice! Have a wonderful summer and check for updates often! With love, Sarah