Classical Singing

Singers who are successfully admitted to this course will benefit from a varied programme of activities which can be tailored to suit individual requirements. Each day begins with a presentation on a technical aspect of singing, which by the end of the week will result in each student having revised and refreshed his/her working knowledge of their vocal technique. The classes and individual lessons on a wide range of topics enable singers to develop as artists and acquire necessary skills as performers. Each student will take the next step on a journey towards a heightened professionalism.
Expert skilled diagnosis of resonance and registration issues, using state-of-the-art computer-based equipment, offers each singer a rare and valuable insight into what really needs to be achieved to free the full vocal instrument. In addition there will be a separate class to develop the important area of breathing skills for singers.

Delivered by highly experienced successful artists of international renown, coaching in French Melodie, German Lieder, Italian Song and English Song will be available, as well as work on appropriate operatic repertoire and acting for singers. These sessions are delivered in very small groups which facilitate individual as well as ensemble performance.

Students benefit from individual singing tuition from our team of highly experienced vocal specialist tutors, where any aspect of the singer’s skills can be considered.

In addition there are classes in audition techniques with advice offered on repertoire choice and presentation, and preparation for differing audition situations.

Course leader

Stephen Robertson Head of Vocal Performance at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Stephen Robertson is a vocal pedagogue who is much in demand both nationally and internationally, especially in the USA where he has been a regular giver of masterclass

Target group

This course is an intensive week of classes and coaching in vocal technique, performance skills and repertoire. It is suitable for singers aged 17+ who are either already studying at conservatoire level, or for those wishing to refresh and enhance their professional abilities.

Students should have reached a minimum of around ABRSM Grade 8 or equivalent in order to fully benefit from this intensive summer school.

Course aim

By the end of the week students should have:

• developed and refined their vocal technique

• experienced improved individual performance
skills

• gained greater insight in repertoire artistry

• achieved a better understanding of themselves
as singers