St. Tikhon’s Opens Applications for 2026–2027 Music Residency

Photo: sttikhonsmusicprogram.com

SOUTH CANAAN, PA — Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 St. Tikhon’s Music Residency, a nine-month immersive program designed to train Orthodox church musicians through intensive study, practical leadership experience, and participation in the liturgical life of St. Tikhon's Monastery.

The residency spans nearly an entire liturgical year and combines classroom instruction with hands-on musical formation. Participants study conducting, liturgics, sacred music history, music theory, vocal technique, aural skills, choral methods, and the traditional eight tones of Orthodox church music. Residents also receive private voice lessons, collaborate on musical projects with faculty and fellow students, and gain experience directing and rehearsing St. Tikhon’s choirs.

A distinctive aspect of the program is its integration with monastery life. Residents participate in daily services throughout the year while also taking courses in Orthodox spirituality taught by Abbot Sergius. Organizers describe the residency as an opportunity to develop both musical excellence and spiritual formation within one of the most historic Orthodox communities in North America.

The annual cost of the program is $17,500, including $11,500 in tuition and $6,000 for room and board. Scholarships and flexible payment options are available on a case-by-case basis. Former participants have praised the residency for providing practical leadership training, mentorship, and a deeper understanding of Orthodox worship and church music, with many crediting the experience for shaping their future ministry and professional work.

Applications for the residency program can be found here. 

Previously, the UOJ reported that St. Tikhon’s Monastery's Pocket Psalter was officially released.

Read also