Proud to be accepted into University of Michigan’s workshop, “Singing Down the Barriers”, Stacie worked alongside 30 extraordinary singers and collaborative pianists during an intensive week.   Lectures and panels with scholars and artists specializing in this repertoire, joined in discussions on practical topics while exploring repertoire in small group breakout sessions. From poetry analysis and historical background to surveying the songs of contemporary African American composers today, attendees will leave with a stronger understanding of the cultural context and performance practices needed to successfully sing this repertoire. The Institute is an adult summer intensive of the U-M SMTD and is offered in partnership with the Hampsong Foundation via the Classic Song Research Initiative.

Stacie participated in “Diversity and Inclusion in Action” led by Dr. Derrick Fox.  The two-day workshop led choral educators and collaborative pianists throughout the country.  The workshop focused on outlining personal and systemic bias, methods that support varied lived experience and actionable steps that support Diversity, Equity, Access, Inclusion and Belonging.  strategies and instructional methods that break the cycle of oppression and foster an inclusive choral community.

Stacie was also honored to work with Dr. Raymond Wise, who currently serves on the faculty of Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, where he serves as Professor of Practice in the African American  and African Diaspora Studies.  Dr. Wise accepted 4 students into an intensive summer long program concentrating on Gospel Technique for pianists concentrating on lessons with technique,  strategies, practices, repertoire and style.