Students may sign up for one 30-minute class per day from a range of tutors specialising in technique, performance practice, repertoire, style, language and acting. Note that some technique classes are 45-minutes and extras classes are also available upon request, depending on tutor availability. Each day there are group warm-ups, the Masterclass Lunchtime Series, drop-in sessions and choir rehearsals in preparation for the popular Chapel Concert on the last evening of the course.
All students are encouraged to observe other classes and, where repertoire is prepared and ready for performance, to perform in at least one of the evening concerts during the week. The course offers unrivalled opportunities for singers and accompanists, from the inexperienced to those at the highest level, to learn from one another and study with the highest calibre of teachers and coaches in the profession.
Our professional accompanists play for all classes and concerts and will help to rehearse repertoire when available. Should you wish to bring your own accompanist there will be many opportunities to perform together and fine-tune repertoire you may have been working on for some time. If you are applying as a duo, please let us know at the point of application.
Upon arrival at Loretto you’ll receive a welcome pack at boarding house courtyard (residents) or the registration desk in the Theatre foyer (non residents) which will include timetable templates, door codes, catering times etc. Please note there is no parking on campus but lots of on-street parking on adjacent roads. The Theatre notice boards will display course information throughout the week and any important announcements will be made during morning warm-ups and evening concerts. Arrival time will be from 2pm (residents) and 3pm (non residents) on Sunday 4th August, with a vocal warm-up at 3.30pm and choir at 5pm. Dinner will be at 6pm followed by the Public Masterclass with Nicky Spence at 7.30pm. Departure time on Saturday 10th August will be c. 4pm after the Opera Scenes and a short drinks reception.
