From June 10 to 14, Seraphic Fire welcomed fifty-six rising juniors and seniors from eleven Miami-Dade County schools to the 2025 High School Professional Choral Institute (HSPCI). This five-day intensive offered young vocalists a life-changing opportunity to rehearse, perform, and grow alongside Seraphic Fire’s nationally acclaimed professional ensemble.
The program took place at the Herbert and Nicole Wertheim School of Music & Performing Arts on the campus of Florida International University, with rehearsals throughout the week and a culminating performance at The Wertheim, one of Miami’s premier collegiate concert venues. Students spent full days immersed in rehearsals, masterclasses, mock auditions, and workshops designed to help them prepare for applying to and auditioning for college music programs.
“It was remarkable to see the artists of Seraphic Fire take such care and commit so much energy to the students of HSPCI,” said Associate Conductor James K. Bass. “The level of growth and learning that occurred in just five days was truly astounding. My heart was full and will be until HSPCI happens again.”
HSPCI is offered tuition-free to students who are nominated by their high school choir teachers. Each participant also receives two complimentary Seraphic Fire season subscriptions to continue supporting their musical journey.
A Concert to Remember
On Saturday, June 14, families, friends, and community members gathered to witness the culmination of an extraordinary week. The concert was a true side-by-side performance, with HSPCI students joining the artists of Seraphic Fire in a program that showcased both their growth and their potential. From the first notes, it was clear this was no ordinary high school performance. These students rose to a professional standard in just five days.
The students themselves described the experience as both inspiring and transformative. “Being able to see professionals work and learn expert techniques from them” was a highlight for one participant, while another shared, “Being able to feel everyone’s passion gave me a feeling I never felt before. It was truly amazing to work with them.” These moments of growth and connection are at the heart of what HSPCI offers.
During his opening remarks, Bass recognized the critical role of families and educators.
“To the teachers who nurtured these students and trusted us with their education, we thank you,” he said. “And to the parents and families who provided encouragement, transportation, meals, and unwavering support, we are deeply grateful.”
He also challenged the audience to consider the journey.
“If you had started on Tuesday, seeing the music for the first time, singing with people you’d never met, would you be able to perform like this? The answer is no. These students did something remarkable, and they did it with grace, discipline, and heart.”
A Nonprofit Commitment to Music Education
Seraphic Fire has long believed that education is essential to the future of vocal music. HSPCI is one of the only programs in the country where high school students rehearse and perform with a professional choir, right in their own community. For many of these students, this experience is transformational.
“It is a life-altering opportunity for these kids,” said Suzanne Floyd, Seraphic Fire’s Director of Education.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Seraphic Fire is proud to offer this opportunity tuition-free and artist-led. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians and continuing to make professional choral music accessible to all.
To learn more about HSPCI and our full range of educational offerings, visit seraphicfire.org/education. And if you’d like to support our work, please consider making a donation to Seraphic Fire today. Every gift helps us keep programs like this possible.
