Dr. Philip Woodmore, COCA’s Artistic Director of Voice, is making strides in the voice program by developing a new curriculum and pre-professional division production season that is deeply connected to the community, well-rounded, and designed to prepare students for both college and professional careers in musical theatre.
Restructured Curriculum
To enhance COCA’s voice curriculum, Dr. Woodmore reviewed both state and national music education standards and integrated them into COCA’s class models. This effort resulted in a tiered system with a sequential course structure, enabling students to build on their knowledge progressively through their time at COCA.
Students start with an introductory singing class that covers music reading and vocal techniques, focusing on musical theatre and pop music. As they advance, they engage in more specialized classes that develop vocal skills, audition strategies, musical theatre exploration, music literacy, and preparation of music books for college and professional auditions.
“I am thrilled to see our students flourish in voice at COCA as they explore their artistic potential,” said Dr. Woodmore.
In addition to the revamped curriculum, Dr. Woodmore has also welcomed three new faculty members to the voice department, further supporting the development of young professionals in the arts.
Allegro Vocal Company’s Season
Allegro Vocal Company, COCA’s Pre-Professional Division vocal company, has some exciting new community partnerships this season. The group will perform at PBS’s 70th Anniversary Gala on September 21 and provide a pre-show performance at The Fox Theatre for the production of Peter Pan on November 16. Additional community performance opportunities are in development.
Allegro Vocal Company will also collaborate with The St. Louis Children’s Choir, Hazelwood East High School, and the Momento Quartet. These collaborations will strengthen community ties, a priority for Dr. Woodmore.
Additionally, Allegro Vocal Company will feature in two COCApresents concerts this season, showcasing the artistic talent and dedication within the vocal group.
Joyful | DEC 21 | 7:00PM
Joyful celebrates the winter season with a performance by Allegro Vocal Company, showcasing holiday classics like “Carol of the Bells,” along with traditional and pop concert music. The event will open with local acappella quartet Momento and feature a piece by The St. Louis Children’s Choir.
Following the performance, join us for a community gathering with hot chocolate and cookies to celebrate the vocal artists and enjoy a festive event before the holidays.
In addition to holiday concerts, Allegro Vocal Company will carol before COCA’s performance of The Nutcracker on December 13 from 9:30AM–10:00AM and December 14 from 6:15PM–7:00PM.
Harmonious | MAY 24 | 7:00PM
Harmonious is Allegro Vocal Company’s end-of-season music spectacular, featuring both Allegro members and students from COCA’s voice department. This concert will explore the horror musical genre, showcasing songs from Sweeney Todd, Jekyll and Hyde, and Little Shop of Horrors. The performance will also include a piece by The St. Louis Children’s Choirs.
Both concerts highlight the exceptional level of professionalism and talent within the voice program, underscoring COCA’s commitment to excellence within the arts.
