Vocal Summer School

Summer Schools

Vocal Summer School

The Vocal Summer School offers a comprehensive programme aimed at talented young singers, aged 14 to 18, who wish to hone their vocal technique and take their singing to the next level. 

This intensive five-day course includes expert tuition, individual coaching sessions with professional piano accompanist,  Alexander Technique classes, daily workshops in acting and sung languages as well as mindfulness and yoga, solo performance opportunities and a masterclass with a world-renowned artist. The course will give young singers a well-rounded introduction to what is required as a classical artist. Suitable for those who aspire to study at conservatoire, university and professional level, it is also ideal for those who simply wish to hone their vocal skills in an atmosphere which is enjoyable, supportive, and encouraging.  

Dates and applications for the 2025  Vocal Summer School will be announced in due course.

Who is the Vocal Summer School for? 

The course is suitable for classical singers aged 14 to 18, Grade 7 or above (ABRSM or Trinity) or who are singing at an equivalent level. Following a video submission, successful applicants will be invited to take part. 

Course highlights
  • Course programme includes:  
  • One-to-one singing lessons 
  • One-to-one vocal coaching 
  • One-to-one Alexander Technique 
  • Introduction to Improvisation  
  • Daily group workshops including Acting/Stagecraft, Italian Recitative, German Leider and French Melodie 
  • Daily Yoga and Mindfulness sessions  
  • Performance Classes  
  • Masterclass 
  • Participation in final concert held in the magnificent St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral. 
  • Informal concerts by staff and participants  
  • Fun and engaging evening activities including a walking tour of Edinburgh’s historic city centre and movie nights.  
Course leaders
  • Kate Aitken - Course Director
  • Anna Michels - Vocal Coach
  • Robin Sinclair -Alexander Technique

To find out more about our Vocal Summer School course leaders please visit the Our Staff page.

visiting staff
  • Heloise Bernard – French Melodie 
  • Helen Lawson – German Leider 
  • Toby Hession – Italian Recitative 
  • Ava Hickey – Acting and Stagecraft

Location, accommodation and facilities

St Marys Music School is one of five specialist music schools in the UK, designated by the UK Government as providing the highest standard of music training and development. The School is located right in the heart of the stunning city of Edinburgh, capital of Scotland and home to the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Fringe Festival. 

Access to the School is easy with a quick journey by tram, bus or taxi from Edinburgh International Airport which is just 20 minutes away and has direct access to airports throughout the UK and abroad. Haymarket train station is just two-minute walk away.

As well as making use of our fleet of pianos, including a Model B Steinway, students on the course will enjoy all the facilities of our historic campus at Coates Hall, including twin ensuite bedrooms (sharing with one other student), beautiful gardens and a multi-sports court.

Fees and admission

The Vocal Summer School is a fully inclusive residential course. Course fee information will be available in due course. 

Up to 100% funding is available towards fees and travel expenses with all applications for financial assistance being warmly welcomed. Please contact Dr JoAnna Collings, Bursar.

Dr. JoAnna Collings
Bursar
Email 

 Applications for the 2025 Vocal Summer School will open in due course. There are limited places available, and we’ll notify successful applicants within ten days of receiving their application.

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