Po Hsun (Neilson) Chen and Janine Colletti
Po Hsun (Neilson) Chen, a Doctor of Musical Arts in collaborative piano student, and Janine Colletti, a Master of Music in vocal performance student with an emphasis in opera, were both participants at SongFest, held at the Colburn School in Los Angeles from May 30 to June 28. SongFest is the nation's most prestigious summer music festival emphasizing the study and performance of art song, a genre of songs that typically includes vocal music compositions written for one voice with piano accompaniment.
"The faculty at SongFest were really knowledgeable, each with their own diverse repertoire," says Chen. "SongFest invited teachers from the U.S. and also from London, providing us with a range of perspectives on art song. We had many performing opportunities, including daily master classes and formal performances. I loved how well-respected I felt as a pianist too, which doesnt always happen at music festivals."
"My favorite part of SongFest was how absolutely freely and happily the exchange of knowledge and passion for art song flowed between composers and performers, masters and students, legends and aspiring talents, and singers and pianists of all walks of life," says Colletti. "The confluence of minds at this festival was absolutely incredible."