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May Issue 2005
Converse College Student Looks for Sponsorship in Italian Music Study Program
Leigh Ann Murdaugh is currently a sophomore at the Converse College Petrie School of Music in Spartanburg, SC, where she is studying to obtain a Bachelors of Music in Vocal Performance. She was recently accepted into a study abroad program for the summer of 2005. The program is called the Siena Summer Session for Music and the Arts (SSMA) and is sponsored by a non-profit organization. Only 40 applicants are accepted each year worldwide, and auditions are open to professionals, teachers, graduates and undergraduates. Murdaugh was accepted in both voice and oboe. She hopes to attend as a vocalist.
The program, which is held in Siena, Italy, runs from July 19, 2005 through Aug. 19, 2005. While in SSMA, Murdaugh will be taking courses and lessons in voice, vocal diction, oboe, Italian culture and Italian language. She will have the opportunity to study, perform, and experience the culture of Italy; several concerts, lectures and recitals are also scheduled. "I feel this experience would greatly enhance my musical abilities and increase my chances of success with a career as a vocal performer," says Murdaugh.
Of course, with any great opportunity there are also costs. The total cost of the program is $2,395, which does not include class enrollment or airfare. Murdaugh is working at Converse College as a Community Advisor and also working at a local church singing in the choir; however, she will not be able to cover the cost alone. Her parents has already paid $1,000 for her enrollment in the program, and she does not want to put more financial burden on her family. Currently Murdaugh still needs to raise $2,395 by May of 2005. She is looking for sponsorships to help her with this opportunity. Any donation will be greatly appreciated.
For more information on SSMA
you can go to their website at (www.sienamusic.org). Interested
donors can contact Murdaugh by e-mail at (leighann.murdaugh@converse.edu).
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