The Young Performers Studio is a year-long programme that seeks to inspire, nurture and guide ten talented young singers from the North of England on their journey to studying music at a conservatoire or university. It aims to help dedicated young musicians who are facing barriers accessing musical training at an appropriate level, including supporting those from backgrounds that are currently under-represented in the professional classical music world.
The programme will include a mixture of group and one-to-one sessions, both in person at the Howard Opera Centre and online. It will be designed to complement participants’ existing music lessons, where applicable.
An individual learning plan and schedule will be created for each student, with support and oversight from Marie Claire Breen (Vocal Animateur), and input and guidance throughout the year from Opera North’s professional performing company.
The Young Performers will:
- Receive 1:1 coaching sessions throughout the year
- Work with an Opera North accompanist on solo repertoire, building towards a final recital in July at the Howard Assembly Room
- Participate in performance classes to gain valuable performance experience and receive support and insight from other Opera North Young Performers
- Receive online support and in-person support with conservatoire applications, tuition in core musical skills such as musicianship, personal statement writing, regular review of individual learning plan and goals
- Receive support in creating recordings for auditions and applications
- Attend Opera North rehearsals and live performances
Here are some key dates for this academic year:
- Thursday 28th August 2025
- Saturday 11th October
- Tuesday 28th October
- Sunday 9th November
- Saturday 6th December
- Saturday 24th January 2026
- Sunday 8th February
- Saturday 14th March
- Thursday 16th April
- Saturday 25th April
- Sunday 10th May
- Saturday 13th June
- Tuesday 14th July
Eligibility
Open to College, Sixth Form and University (Undergraduate) aged singers at approximately Grade 6+, who aren’t already enrolled on a full-time Music degree or programme. Please refer to the FAQs section for more information.
Applications are particularly encouraged from young musicians from under-represented ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, as well as young people living with a disability or with caring responsibilities.
Application deadline
Applications will open in January 2026
Audition date
January – March 2026
How to apply
Complete the application form.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with the Young Performers Studio team via [email protected]
*Four fully-funded places will be available, as well as partial bursaries, to support young people facing financial barriers. Payment plans will also be available, please see FAQs for more information.
