MASTERCLASS
Vocal Masterclass Opportunity for High School Singers
YOUR LEAP STARTS HERE
Off The Dock is proud to announce a unique educational opportunity for the next generation of classical and musical theater vocalists. We are inviting talented local high school singers to participate in an intensive, 20-minute public masterclass.
THE OPPORTUNITY
One-on-One Coaching: Work for 20 minutes on a piece of your choice with Matthew Payne. Matthew is a graduate of SHS and the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, who has performed at the Tanglewood Music Festival, the Chautauqua Institution, and appeared on the Today Show.
Artistic Growth: Receive immediate feedback on technique, interpretation, and stage presence in a supportive, professional environment
Community Connection: Connect with emerging professionals who were once in your shoes.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
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High school students (Grades 9–12) in the Central NY / Finger Lakes region
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Singers preparing for NYSSMA, college auditions, or school productions
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Dedicated students with a passion for classical voice or musical theater
EVENT DETAILS
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Date & Time: June 13th, 2026 at 2:00 PM
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Location: Skaneateles High School Auditorium
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Cost: Free to apply & to attend as an audience member
HOW TO APPLY
Applications are accepted online via our Google Form. Applicants will need to provide a brief video of themselves singing (YouTube or Drive link) and a PDF of their sheet music.
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Click here to apply
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Deadline: June 5th, 2026
Questions? Contact us at Info@offthedockchamber.com
MEET YOUR TEACHER
Featured as both an educator and performer by The Today Show and The Boston Globe, Matthew Payne holds a Master’s degree from the University of Maryland’s Maryland Opera Studio and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Vocal Performance and Biology from Oberlin Conservatory and College. His performance career includes residencies with Toledo Opera, Central City Opera, Tanglewood Music Center, Chautauqua Opera, and Opera Neo. He has also appeared as a soloist with the French Embassy, the National Mall, Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra, Annapolis Opera, Toledo Symphony, Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, and Syracuse City Ballet.
MEET YOUR ACCOMPANIST
Ben Kringer is a local pianist and Music director who has worked with the Auburn Players, Redhouse Arts Center, and this year’s Auburn High School musical Hadestown. He is the Assistant Director of the Masterworks Chorale. Ben is Skaneateles High School Alumni, as a student he participated in Chorus, Madrigal Choir, Orchestra, and Drama productions. This summer, Ben will be the Director of Auburn Public Theater's Summer camps.
