2026 University of Akron Vocal Choral Festival
Category: Event Calendar
Date and Time
- Monday, Oct 19, 2026 5pm
Location
E.J. Thomas Hall - The University of Akron
198 Hill St
Details
Enjoy the finale of the 2026 University of Akron Vocal Choral Festival as they perform at E.J. Thomas Hall.
The evening concert is FREE and open to the public at 5:00 p.m at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall. All parking at UA is PAID. For more information, please visit www.uakronpark.com Or contact UAkronPark at 330-972-7213 / info@uakronpark.com
About The Festival
The 2026 University of Akron Vocal Choral Festival will welcome Dr. Lisa Wong, Director of Choruses for the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra, as Kulas Guest Clinician and Mentor. Through a series of immersive educational experiences, Dr. Wong will engage University of Akron students, secondary school singers, and choral educators in a day centered on artistic excellence, mentorship, and collaborative music-making.
Dr. Wong will lead an intensive masterclass with the University of Akron Concert Choir and Chamber Choir, providing advanced instruction in rehearsal techniques, ensemble artistry, and expressive performance practice. In addition to working directly with the ensembles, she will mentor emerging student conductors, offering individualized guidance and practical leadership strategies that will strengthen their development as future music educators and conductors.
As an adjudicator for the High School Choral Festival, Dr. Wong will evaluate participating ensembles and provide recorded comments designed to encourage growth while recognizing each choir’s achievements. This formative feedback will equip students and directors with practical tools for continued musical development and reinforce a culture of excellence and lifelong learning.
The residency will culminate in a 2.5-hour rehearsal and public performance of a combined festival choir under Dr. Wong’s direction. Bringing together University of Akron students and talented high school singers from across the region, this collaborative experience will foster mentorship across educational levels while demonstrating the transformative power of collective artistry and shared purpose.
The annual Vocal Choral Festival serves as a cornerstone recruitment initiative for the University of Akron Choral Music Program and strengthens connections between the university and regional schools. By providing meaningful interactions with a nationally respected conductor and educator, the festival inspires aspiring musicians, supports music educators, and enriches the cultural life of the greater Akron community. Support from the Kulas Foundation will make these high-impact educational opportunities possible, expanding access to exceptional artistic mentorship and cultivating the next generation of choral leaders.
