Celebrating the Voice: A Professional Development Programme for Singers

NCH Artist-in-Residence Tara Erraught and a team of international guest artists and industry experts lead an immersive professional development programme comprising vocal coaching, seminars, discussions and performances.

This intensive programme is uniquely tailored to classical singers, giving them the supports and resources they need both on and off the stage to navigate their professional careers.

Guest international artists and industry experts include:

Morgane Fauchois-Prado, pianist
Dearbhla Collins, pianist
Alexander Neef, Director of Opéra National de Paris
Paul Kwak, world authority on vocal health and ENT specialist working with opera singers
Andreas Massow, Artist Manager and former Casting Director at Bayerische Staatsoper, Munich
Gaby Smyth, financial and tax consultant specialising in literary, music, film, theatre and visual arts

RTÉ lyric fm’s Liz Nolan will host panel discussions, Q&A events and performances during the week.

Applications Now Open for this Programme

Closing Date for Applications is Friday 28th June 2024 at 5pm

Please read criteria below before submitting your application.

Application Criteria

Entrants must be:

Entrants must either be Irish citizens or resident in Ireland.
at the final stages of their third-level education, in an Opera Studio or equivalent

Each entrant will submit:

A completed application form with personal details and details of the recorded submissions
A repertoire list to include 3-4 contrasting songs, and 3-4 contrasting arias, at least one of which must be Mozart
A video recording of two contrasting pieces, one of which must be an opera aria – this video must not be older than 12months.
If in full time education or an Opera Studio A letter of recommendation from their teacher, which include their proposed repertoire is required.

A limited number singers will be selected for this exceptional opportunity to work with Tara Erraught, the 2024/2025 Artist in Residence alongside world renowned répétiteurs, industry experts, and the National Symphony Orchestra.
This intensive 5-day course will encompass vocal coaching, masterclasses and rehearsals, and will culminate with two concerts on Friday 14th February 2025, one focusing on art song with piano, and the other focusing on opera repertoire with the National Symphony Orchestra. Participating singers will attend all performance-related activities (coachings, masterclasses, rehearsals and performances), and will attend all public talk events, seminars and panel discussions.
There is no charge to participate in this course.
Deadline for applications: Friday 28 June 2024
Singers will be notified of their selection at the end of August 2024, and which concert they will be performing in.
The panel’s decision is final, and no feedback will be given.