St Mary’s Music School announces new Vocal Programmes first of its kind in Scotland

★ Two-part Vocal Programme officially begins in September 2024

★ TASTER DAY set for 5th May, including a Concert, Performance Classes, Coaching and Ensemble Work for ages 13 – 18, led by vocal experts

St Mary’s Music School, an established internationally recognised specialist music school based in Edinburgh’s West End, has announced an exciting new two-part expansion to their music education: the Changing Voices Programme and the Senior Vocal Programme.

These programmes will create opportunities for young singers who are interested in developing classical solo voice to the next level.

The Vocal Programmes are designed to support young aspiring singers in realising their potential. With a focus on expert coaching and teaching, these programmes run concurrently with the School’s academic classes, reinforcing the School’s reputation as a leader in shaping musical education.

Head of Voice Kate Aitken said: “The new vocal programmes at St Mary’s Music School are a fantastic and significant addition, not only to the School and its pupils, but to music education in Scotland.

“The programmes will give passionate young singers a place where they can thrive and hone their craft in a safe and supportive environment. Vocal education is not just about receiving great singing lessons, the creation of a complete programme for young singers will help to develop and inspire the next generation of singers: this has been a long time coming!”

To experience what the new programmes have to offer, a Vocal Taster Day will be held on 5 May 2024, opening the School’s doors to prospective pupils and their families who want to learn more about specialist vocal training for children aged 13 – 18.

With notable former pupils including Alexander Armstrong, Steven Osborne, Brìghde Chaimbeul, and Aaron Akugbo, the new Vocal Programmes expansion at St Mary’s Music School hopes to see wider pools of exciting new talent emerge to lead the upcoming generations of singers across Scotland and beyond.

Director of Music John Cameron said: “To add a comprehensive programme for singers to sit alongside the instrumental training we offer is hugely exciting and speaks to the ambition of the School.

“Early exposure to movement, drama, languages and poetry as well as singing lessons and ensemble work is key to the development of young singers whilst the voice settles and grows. We look forward to being able to offer this new programme and look forward to watching it grow.”