Office of Summer Programs
Alumni Hall
Dates
June 28 to July 3, 2026
The Program
Join singer/songwriter and musicologist Dr. Hannah Porter Denecke for a week of songwriting in beautiful Alfred, New York. We will study the craft of nature-writing as we consider the use of images and symbols from the natural world in the work of poets like Robert Frost, Mary Oliver, Wendell Berry, and many others. In addition to studying poetry and lyrics together, we will spend time in nature through interpretive walks, guided hikes, and outdoor writing sessions. By the end of the week, we will have written multiple songs as a group and individually. We will perform our favorite songs from the week in a concert. This songwriting experience is open to all high school students. Whether you are a seasoned songwriter or have never sung a song or played a guitar, there will be something for you!
Level
High School, Beginners Encouraged
Tuition, Meals & Housing
Program Cost: $1,000
Program Deposit: $100
This pricing includes tuition, materials, meals, and housing. All housing and meals will take place here on Alfred University’s campus.
Discounts
We are pleased to offer a $100 discount off tuition for students whose primary residence is within a fifty-mile radius of Alfred, New York, as well as for children of Alfred University Alumni and returning students from any Pre-College Program at Alfred University. Please contact Pre-College Programs Coordinator Isaac Matson for details.
About the Instructor
Dr. Hannah Porter Denecke is a musicologist, touring folk musician, church musician, and classically trained singer living in the Southern Tier of Western New York. Hannah received the Ph.D. in Musicology from Florida State University, the M.M. in Musicology at the University of Florida, and the B.M. in Applied Music (Composition & Theory) at Western Illinois University. Hannah's indie folk duo, The Deneckes, brings together history and storytelling in an intimate musical environment. You can learn more about Hannah at her website, and you can check out her indie folk duo at thedeneckes.com.
