This course is for performers, whether amateur or professional, who want to explore singing in an authentic and personal way, focusing on English Art Songs from the 17th century to 21st century. Accompaniment by piano, lute or guitar will be available, and players of these instruments are encouraged to join the course. Each singing student will have three lessons with Evelyn Tubb in an informal masterclass setting. Michael Fields offers one-to-one opportunities for further coaching on songs suitable for accompaniment by lute or guitar.

Singing technique, interpretation, performing philosophy and confidence will be explored in daily masterclasses and informal performances during the three evenings. Following the course, there will be an afternoon student concert.

Please prepare three to six contrasting pieces of your own choice. Songs should be memorised to obtain maximum benefit from the performing experience. Please bring an extra copy for accompanists. It is important that you email in advance details of what you intend to bring to the course to enable the tutors to prepare – see Preparation below.

Whilst this course is not suitable for beginners or inexperienced solo singers, students of a wide range of age, ability and training are very welcome. Some late afternoon/evening teaching sessions may be included. The tutors will advise at the start of the course.

What students need to bring

• Please prepare and bring three to six contrasting pieces of your own choice. Essential: email this information to the tutors via the Bookings Office at: [email protected], at least three weeks prior to the course. Include information on your singing/playing experience, previous courses you have attended and your voice type/instrument you intend to play.
• A spare copy of your selected songs for the accompanist
• A portable recording device may be useful.

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)

Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm

Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

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