Opera Caledonia Vocal Studio Course 2023: apply now!
An intensive vocal studio course providing the opportunity for a small group of vocal artists singing at conservatoire level or beyond to work with leading professionals from the opera industry – taking place at the beautiful Institut Français d’Écosse in the centre of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, Scotland - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Faculty includes David Gowland (Artistic Director – Jette Parker Young Artists Programme at the Royal Opera House Covent Garden), Elizabeth Rowe (Vocal Coach & Répétiteur incl. National Opera Studio, Royal Opera House Covent Garden & Guildhall School of Music and Drama), Derek Clark (Head of Music – Scottish Opera) and international soprano Judith Howarth.
No specific repertoire is required – singers are welcome to bring either operatic, song or oratorio repertoire. Our faculty of leading vocal coaches will accommodate the artistic goal of each individual whether they are learning new repertoire, preparing a role or refining audition repertoire etc. The personal development of each singer is integral to the ethos of this Vocal Studio Course which will provide a safe environment to develop artistically. Each participant will receive multiple coachings daily and will work with all vocal coaches over the two days with a focus on intensive, one-to-one learning.
Judith Howarth will lead a masterclass. Please indicate on application if you would like to be considered to sing in the masterclass.
Discussions, Q&A and talks will accompany the timetable of coachings and masterclasses covering a range of topics including the profession of singing and audition preparation.
There will be both public and closed performance opportunities open to all singers as well as informal sharing of work. All participants are invited to sing in the Closing Concert, taking place in the beautiful St. Giles’ Cathedral (built in 1124) as part of the St. Giles’ at Six programme. Participants are welcome to record their performances with the permission of their collaborative pianist.
Unless by prior arrangement, all coachings are “open” and course participants are encouraged to observe coaching sessions to learn from their colleagues. Practice rooms are available, all equipped with pianos.
Limited participant numbers will ensure maximum time with our faculty. This is a fantastic opportunity not only to benefit from coachings but through active discussion and conversation with our professionals.
The Institut Français d’Écosse is the perfect venue for exploring the historic Old Town of Edinburgh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights within walking distance include Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, St. Giles’ Cathedral and The Palace of Holyrood amongst others. The Institut is a 5 minute walk from Waverley Station, Edinburgh’s central train station situated on Princes Street. There are fast and frequent tram and bus services linking Edinburgh Airport and the city centre. There will be time to explore the local area for those who wish to do so.
Participants are responsible for their own accommodation. From hotels to hostels, airbnbs to guest houses; the city centre of Edinburgh has something for everyone. Meals are not provided. There are many restaurants, cafes and bars within walking distance offering a range of cuisine including traditional Scottish fare. Complimentary tea & coffee is provided.
Participants should arrive at the Institut Français d’Écosse ready to attend a Welcome Meeting at 10.00am on Saturday 17th June. The course will end on Sunday 18th June at 7.00pm following the Closing Concert in St. Giles’ Cathedral.
Fees of £425.00 are inclusive of all tuition, masterclasses, performance opportunities and unlimited tea/coffee throughout each day.
Opera Caledonia’s Vocal Studio Course is suitable for vocal artists singing at conservatoire level or beyond and does not discriminate against artists based on race, nationality, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, disability and/or age.
Payment plans are available to spread the cost of tuition fees over several months. Please specify your interest in a payment plan on application. Fees must be paid in full by the start of the course.
To apply, please complete the application form at www.operacaledonia.co.uk, accompanied by two recent audio recordings of yourself and a letter of recommendation. If you are unable to provide recent recordings, please send us any recordings that best demonstrate your ability.
Places are allocated to artists of the appropriate level on a first come, first served basis. You will have a response within two weeks of submitting your application.
Application Deadline: Monday 1st May 2023.
Places are strictly limited so early application is advised. Depending on availability, late applications may be accepted at the discretion of Opera Caledonia.
