Outreach Programs

The 2023 Spotlight Miami has been canceled.

Join the Miami University Voice Faculty for a day focused on high school singers and learn more about the program that Opera News calls "A Hidden Gem."

• Mock Auditions with Feedback
• Master Class with Miami Voice Faculty
• Student Performances
• Tour of the Beautiful Miami Campus

The event is free for all prospective students, parents, and teachers!

Spotlight Schedule

The Miami University Virginia Pearce Glick Young Musicians' Program is geared towards pre-college aged students (5-18 years old) in the Oxford community and surrounding areas. Instruction is offered in violin, viola and cello. The Young Musicians' Program promotes musical literacy through a combination of the best teaching methods currently available, including the Suzuki Method. Students in the program develop a foundation for lifelong musical engagement and appreciation of music through private lessons, group classes and formal recitals. Additional outreach events are optional such as performing at nursing homes, baseball games, Suzuki group play-ins and participating in the Ohio Federation of Music Clubs Festival (earning trophies!).

In general our program follows the Ohio Department of Education Music Standards by “independently or collaboratively performing a varied repertoire of music”. For the weekly private lessons, students will be placed with the appropriate faculty member based on age and skill level. In addition to private lessons, students attend monthly group classes to have a three-fold experience:

1. Collaborative skill building
2. Increase theoretical knowledge of music
3. Learning to perform comfortably in front of peers with mutual support

The program ends each semester with a formal recital, providing an opportunity for students to perform on stage, showcasing the music they have learned to their family and friends.

 For more information about the Young Musicians' Program please contact director Christine House-Shumway at housesc@miamioh.edu or (513) 314-8610.

The Schmidt Vocal Competition is held annually in select locations throughout the U.S. for aspiring high school singers who will perform, learn, and compete for cash awards and scholarships. Singers receive written feedback from adjudicators who are part of the Schmidt Vocal Artist Network. Each competition features master classes with world-renowned artists. Competitors also become part of the Schmidt program alumni where they can network with others and participate in future alumni programming.

The Schmidt Vocal Institute (SVI) is a program developed and funded by the William E. Schmidt Foundation and directed by Miami University alumna Linda McAlister (MM '01). The Schmidt Foundation has strong roots in the Miami University arts programs, supporting the William E. Schmidt Youth Vocal Competition and contributing to scholarships for students in the Miami University College of Creative Arts. 

About the William E. Schmidt Foundation

As part of its mission the William E. Schmidt Foundation provides support and encouragement to youth in the arts. Annually the Foundation provides scholarships and support to over one hundred and fifty students in the arts.