TALENTED young singers have the opportunity to experience some expert tutoring before performing at this year’s Elgar Festival thanks to a new event in the programme.
Elgar Festival’s Young Singers’ Masterclass Day will welcome six youngsters for a day with master teachers Ian Venables, the festival’s Composer in Residence and renowned American soprano April Fredrick.
The event at 11am and 2pm on Tuesday, May 27 will be held in the inspirational surroundings of Elgar’s birthplace at The Firs in Lower Broadheath.
Pianists Elizabeth Haughan and Rebecca Watson will also be part of the event. The scheme was launched towards the end of last year, inviting young singers aged 18 to 25 to audition.
Attendees will have a chance to watch the six talented performers during their coaching sessions before they will perform in a more formal concert setting. The sessions will involve individual coaching, feedback and advice.
Kenneth Woods, artistic director of The Elgar Festival said: “Encouraging the next generation of singers to help us celebrate the life and works of Worcestershire’s most famous composer adds a new and exciting element to the festival as well as highlighting the talent of these future singers. It will be a fabulous festival first.”
Both sessions are free and open to the public.
Applications are still open Friday, April 4. To apply, applicants must email [email protected] with a covering letter and a video performing a song by Elgar or Venables.
Successful applicants will be notified by Friday, April 18 and all piano parts and vocal scores must be submitted by Friday, April 25.
The Elgar Festival takes place from Saturday 24 May until Sunday 1 June this year.
Visit www.elgarfestival.org for more information.
