After being selected to participate in the International Conductors Exchange Program (ICEP) through the American Choral Directors Association in early 2017, Castleton Music Department Chair Sherrill Blodget recently returned to campus motivated and inspired after her abroad visit.
As part of the program, Blodget hosted fellow conductor Ana Laura Rey of Montevideo, Uruguay at Castleton in March. During her visit, Rey, who serves as the Choir Conductor at the Music School of the University of the Republic, had the opportunity to tour Castleton’s music facilities and work closely with the University Chorale and Chamber Singers.
“Although voice types and tones vary in different countries, it really is possible to communicate through music and about music in any language,” said Blodget.
Fulfilling her portion of the international exchange, Blodget recently spent nearly 10 days in Uruguay. While abroad, Blodget spent her time teaching workshops and guest conducting at several local music schools, in addition to taking in the countries music and culture and collaborating with several other local choral directors and students.
“Hearing the different choirs sing arrangements of traditional and current Uruguayan choral music and getting to know some wonderful people were the highlight of my trip,” explained Blodget, adding that she greatly enjoyed being immersed in the Spanish culture. “The singers perform the music with incredible energy, singing with their whole bodies. It is really exciting and moving to watch and listen to.”
As she returns back to Castleton, she hopes to incorporate many of her new experiences, memories, and knowledge into her regular classroom teachings, creating a blend of music rich in culture.
“I really enjoyed exploring a different culture, music, and approach to singing and performing music,” said Blodget. “I return inspired to learn and teach new music, to try some new conducting and directing techniques, and with a renewed belief that music truly is universal.”