Lehigh University Cutler-Sametz Scholarship

One distinguishing quality of the Lehigh University Choir is its musical flexibility: In concert, the University Choir effortlessly moves from one genre to another. The University Choir has performed major works such as Händel's Messiah, the Requiem settings by Mozart, Verdi, Brahms, Fauré and Britten; J.S. Bach's Magnificat, St. John Passion and a staged version of the St. Matthew Passion with Baroque orchestra; premiered many new works written specially for them, and been featured in concert with the Grammy-Award winning ensemble Chanticleer in the Monteverdi Vespers of 1610. Talented incoming singers to Lehigh of any major are eligible to apply for the Cutler- Sametz Choral Arts Scholarship program, which totals $10,000-$20,000 over four years and voice lessons. This four-year scholarships named in honor of Robert B. Cutler, director of the Lehigh Glee Club from 1954-1979, and Steven P. Sametz, Director of Lehigh Choral Arts from 1979 to the present. This is a merit-based scholarship, including a stipend and voice lessons. Choral Arts Scholars sing in University Choir during their time at Lehigh. Choral Arts Scholars also participate in the Glee Club, Dolce, or the Choral Union for at least four semesters. There is a two-step audition process for those interested in Lehigh's Cutler-Sametz Choral Arts Scholarship program. 1. The initial application is due January 17. This includes: a) A recording of two solo classical works (art song, aria, chanson or Lied); it is preferable that one of these be in a language other than English b) A letter of recommendation from a vocal or choral teacher 2. Based on the initial application, finalists will be invited to come to Lehigh's campus for an interview with Directors Frook Gallo and Olson. This will include singing (it may be the pieces sent in part 1), and sight-reading. In cases where travel would be a hardship, interviews via Zoom are possible. The personal interview is preferred when possible. The application for the Cutler-Sametz Choral Scholarship is in addition to the normal application for acceptance to Lehigh. Awards of scholarships are included in the applicant's letter of acceptance in April. The Cutler-Sametz Choral Scholarship is renewed each year, provided students maintain at least a 2.8 average at Lehigh University.