NOVEMBER 2014
N E W S L E T T E R
SO LONG HUTONG:
MARGY STOVER’S MONTH IN CHINA Academy teacher shares her stories about her trip as part of the Fulbright-Hays Seminars Abroad Program Sketch by Stover inspired by her time in Chongquig, China
Visual Arts Department Chair, Margy Stover, applied and was awarded the Fulbright-Hays Seminars Abroad Program scholarship. Stover spent a month in China immersed in the culture with other educators—experiencing Chinese traditions first hand. In her application to the program, Stover expressed interest in learning more about urbanization in China and ties to Chicago’s development at the start of the 20th century. Specifically she questioned what is development and is the impact on the social and urban fabric.
Before departing, Stover spent time at Stanford University taking classes on Chinese culture, something she noted was extremely helpful and informative for her trip. While in China, the group spent time in Chongquig, Shanghai and Beijing among other cities and towns. As part of the trip, Stover attended a talk on the People-toPeople Exchange with Secretary of State John Kerry at the Great Hall of the People in Tiananmen Square.
trip was partnered with China Education Association for International Exchange. This program is designed with the intention of providing American educators with seminars abroad to improve knowledge and understanding of different cultures. In her presentation Stover mentions the importance, particularly in the field of design, of understanding the Chinese culture and traditions.
The Fulbright-Hays Seminars Abroad Program is run though the U.S. Department of Education and this specific
RENÉE FLEMING CONDUCTS MASTER CLASS WITH ACADEMY STUDENTS
As part of the Academy’s Prodigy Institute Program, Academy students meet and perform for the world renowned vocalist with other Chicago-area music students through partnership with the Lyric Opera of Chicago Along with other Chicago-area aspiring musicians, The Academy’s Music Department had the privilege of attending a master class with one of the most impressive classical vocalists of our time, Renee Fleming. The class held at the Merit School of Music, featured five student vocalists performing for Fleming. Each student was given specific feedback and pointers from the master herself.
Academy junior, Elenna Sindler sang “L’ho perduta” from The Marriage of Figaro by Mozart. Following her performance, Fleming was able to relay advice specifically about her range. “She gave me the confidence I needed to continue to work on my upper range,” said Sindler, “It was an amazing experience. I loved meeting and performing for her!”
The Academy’s Prodigy Institute provides professional level artistic experiences like this master class for students throughout the year. For more information about the program and official Academy Prodigy Partners please visit the Academy’s website (chicagoartsacademy.org).
IN THIS ISSUE Alumni Feature (2)
AIDS Benefit Recap (2)
Barbara Gaines of Chicago Shakespeare Theater stops by The Academy (3)
Upcoming Events (4)