I went on this trip with certain expectations, but I was surprised to see how fully they were met and surpassed…[I] was constantly presented with opportunities, whether on the stage or in the street, to demonstrate my new knowledge…I was afforded a wealth of opportunities which will continue to impact me in ways which I cannot yet fathom. ~~ Hyery H., soprano/pianist (Conservatory Doctoral candidate, ’07)

“Si parla, si canta”‘ is an amazing program. If you’re interested in learning Italian and getting top notch opera coaching in the middle of the picturesque Marche region of Italy, do not hesitate to sign up. I personally enjoyed working and learning with singers of all different skill levels. ~~ Jim, baritone (University graduate student, ’10)

[It was] an experience I will never forget…Although I had studied Italian before, I learned so much more about the language than I expected in such a small amount of time. The way Centro Studi sets up their program is really fantastic. It was great for me because I felt challenged, but didn’t feel like I was in over my head. ~~ Lauren I., mezzo-soprano (Conservatory sophomore, ’07)

I can’t think of a better career investment for a serious student of opera than ‘Si parla, si canta.’ The linguistically driven program provides the student with a solid foundation in spoken, written and sung Italian. The teaching staff at Centro Studi is extremely talented and supportive. The program is also bolstered by a world-renowned coaching staff that seeks to bring out the best in each voice. I am very glad that I was able to participate in the summer 2010 program. ~~ Joshua, tenor (University graduate student ’10)

I couldn’t think of a better way to experience Italy for the first time. ‘Si parla, si canta’ is an ideal fusion of language, music, and culture. The marriage of the Italian language and music was an especially inspiring aspect of the program, well-balanced with opportunities to explore charming Urbania and other gorgeous cities in the surrounding area. Between the delicious food, incredibly friendly folks, and quality music-making, I will always cherish my experience at SPSC!~~ Christina, pianist (University graduate student ’10)

I wish  could truly put into words ho w wonderful this program was for me. Everything I write seems to fall flat, or sounds “sales pitchy” but the program really did change my life. It is truly amazing how many things I gained from “Si parla, si canta.” Because of the wonderful, in-depth coachings I received, plus the opportunity to collaborate with other talented musicians, I feel I made more progress in one month than in a whole semester at school. All of the things I learned, I was able to put to use almost immediately since we performed at least once a week. Besides excellent musical training, the language school was also wonderful. You are often able to practice what you’ve learned in the classroom later that very day. This constant learning experience enriches you as a performer, musician, and person. ~~ Jennifer W., soprano (University Doctoral candidate, ‘08)

“Si parla, si canta” truly changed my perceptions of music, performance, and language in one month. The instruction was incredible, and the small town life allowed me to practice Italian and absorb culture every day. I couldn’t have asked for a better program. ~~ Zachary B., baritone (University junior ’08)

‘Si parla, si canta’ is a fabulous program that all young singers and coaches should get to experience! Being able to interact with such fine faculty and other ambitious musicians is a priceless experience where learning is abounding. I met wonderful friends while studying in Urbania, and learned a lot of challenging repertoire. I would highly recommend SPSC to anyone looking for a challenging but fun summer program! ~~ Rebekah, pianist (University graduate student‘’10)

I absolutely loved the program because it not only gave us intense language learning and the opportunity to incorporate everything into opera scenes, but also a wonderful cultural immersion. We were all spoiled by the willingness of our teachers to help at the language school, the priceless direction we received from the coaches, and the social interactions with the people in Urbania. It was an amazing way to spend a month in Italy! ~~ Emily J., soprano (Conservatory freshman, ‘08)

I wanted to let you know how grateful I am for the opportunities given to me through “Si parla, si canta.” I don’t believe I have ever learned so much in 4 weeks. The information and the experience that I received in Urbania were so beneficial to me. Again thank you for such an amazing opportunity. ~~ Aaron L., tenor (Conservatory graduate student, ‘08)