About Berks Vocal Arts

  • Berks Vocal Arts was established in 2016, for high school singers looking for inspiration and challenge, increased rigor, and complex music

  • Berks Vocal Arts is a diverse vocal ensemble devoted to achieving vocal excellence through artistic expression and a rigorous work ethic, with emphasis on building musicianship through sight reading & the performance of challenging choral literature. 

  • Many of our Berks Vocal Arts students plan on pursuing a career in music performance, therapy, or education. You don’t have to be a future major though! You just have to be passionate about the art of singing and fine-tuning your craft!

  • Commitment & Attendance:Vocal Arts students will be held to the highest standards of attendance, behavior, and accountability. They will be expected to make Vocal Arts a top priority and there is a strict attendance policy.

  • Schedule: Meets weekly from Sept through mid-to-late May. The studio is closed for major holidays.

  • Location: Offered at one of our studio locations in Boyertown, PA.

  • Grades: 10-12, younger students considered by the director on a case-by-case basis

  • Class size: Ranges from 5 to 12 students

  • A part of Collective Harmony, our umbrella term for our vocal ensembles. View current schedule, pricing, and registration details for all of our vocal programs.

  • Performance Opportunities: This class performs several times per year at studio events (such as the Snowfall Serenade and our Annual Cabaret) and in the community.

  • Performance Attire: BVA Blazer with black shirt (or Honor Choir Shirt), black pants, black socks and shoes (no sneakers unless there is choreography)

What Do We Do In
Berks Vocal Arts?

  • Master advanced sight reading and solfege technique

  • Develop vocal excellence through rigorous classical training — including tone production, diction, breath support, and resonance

  • Perform challenging choral literature in multiple languages

  • Build exceptional musicianship through complex repertoire

  • Cultivate artistic expression with professional-level standards

  • Sing in advanced harmony while developing sensitivity to ensemble balance and the nuances of choral blend

  • Explore diverse musical styles with depth and sophistication

  • Develop leadership skills and serve as a model of excellence within the broader studio community

  • Prepare and perform at multiple events throughout the year — both at the studio and in the community

  • Experience the transformative impact of being part of a high-achieving ensemble of dedicated vocalists

Applying to
Berks Vocal Arts

Entrance by student application and audition (auditions are ongoing and can be scheduled with the director):

  1. Sealed/Signed teacher recommendation letter - Have any teacher write a confidential recommendation letter about you describing your overall commitment to excellence, behavior in class/rehearsal and typical attendance. The letter should describe the teacher’s perception of your individual strengths AS WELL AS areas for improvement & growth.  Teachers should email this to patricia@patriciakeith.com.  Please do not ask them to send you a copy of the email.

  2. Student Essay - Please write why you would like to be a part of Berks Vocal Arts.  What do you hope to glean from the experience and what unique traits do you plan to bring to the group? What will your level of commitment be?  What are your strengths as a choral singer and what areas do you hope to improve?

  3. Have a prepared piece of your choosing that demonstrates your best vocal technique (classical styles encouraged).  Bring accompaniment/sheet music to your audition.  Recorded accompaniment may be considered, but should not have vocals on the track. 

  4. Sight Reading, provided by the director, & Range Check, led by the director

  • Berks Vocal Arts student rehearse for our Cabaret performance at the Music Studio of Patricia Keith in Boyertown

    The Music Studio of Patricia Keith is such an amazing place! The studio provided me a safe and growing environment where I could work on my craft to become the best artist I could be. It is a wonderful staff of teachers and a place I made so many friends. I will be forever grateful for what I learned!

    —M.C., Google Review

  • Berks Vocal Arts students smile after their performance in our Annual Spring Choral Concert in Boyertown PA.

    The Music Studio of Patricia Keith is the best place to hone your craft and have fun doing it. This studio has helped me achieve so many of my singing goals (including getting into college for Musical Theater) in a positive and supportive environment. The choirs and classes are amazing, and the staff and students are so wonderful.

    —A.S. (Google Review)

  • Berks Vocal Arts students rehearse for the 2024 Cabaret at the Music Studio of Patricia Keith.

    I can not recommend this studio and Ms. Trish enough! I worked with Ms.Trish all throughout high school and her guidance and continuous support and encouragement have made me into the person I am today. I used to be very shy especially when it came to performing solo but after working with Ms. Trish, I was able to come out of my shell and build up my confidence in my voice and in myself. While studying with Ms. Trish, I was able to perform in many different cabarets including solo, duet, and group numbers. Additionally, we were able to perform at the Gershwin Theater where Wicked is performed on Broadway! I have so much love for Ms. Trish and all the wonderful people I have met through this music studio. If you are on the fence on joining, go for it and you will not regret it!

    —S.E. (Google Review)