Southern Voices is excited to announce our Choral Scholarship programme. This is an opportunity for young singers to sing with us, all expenses paid, for the remainder of the academic year 2024-2025.
We are looking to introduce one or two choral scholars into each of our lower voice parts (ATB). Suitable candidates will be auditioned in January 2025, with the scholarship starting immediately, although this could be adapted to the circumstances of the individual. The scholarship would suit current sixth-formers, gap-year students, or recently graduated students who are seeking to develop their singing opportunities or potentially looking to apply for a choral scholarship at a university or cathedral.
From our Director of Music:
"We are thrilled to have started this season with two soprano choral scholars in the choir. They have made an excellent start with us, bringing with them experience and ability whilst looking to further their skill for both the better of their vocal development and also the sound of the ensemble."
Benefits of being a Choral Scholar
- Membership, music hire and reasonable travel expenses are funded thanks to generous sponsorship from the D'Oyly Carte Charitable Trust
- Solo opportunities
- Mentoring
- Opportunities to sing a variety of choral repertoire
- Reference from Southern Voices’ Musical Director for future applications.
Expectations
- A high level of musical ability
- Attendance at all four concerts
- Attendance at 85% of rehearsals each term at St Paul's, Winchester.
Schedule
- Applications are still open until Easter 2025
- Auditions will be held as soon as can be arranged
- Choral Scholarship to start immediately
- Rehearsals at St Paul's, Winchester on Mondays 7:30 - 9:30pm
Application Process
- To apply, click the link below and tell us about yourself, your singing experience and interest in this choral scholarship. You will receive a copy of your application by email.
- If selected, the audition will include some vocal exercises, a prepared vocal piece and some sight reading.
Choral scholars' experiences with Southern Voices...
'I joined Southern Voices during my final year of sixth form, after leaving the Winchester Cathedral Girls’ Choir. Southern Voices was a natural progression due to the renowned high standard and diverse repertoire.
My enjoyment of music meant that a Bachelor’s degree in music was a natural progression, where my experiences from Southern Voices encouraged and prepared me to take part in a variety of vocal ensembles, including the university choir, chamber choir, madrigal choir and close harmony group.
I rejoined Southern Voices following completion of my Bachelor’s, and again following my Master’s degree in music therapy. During this time the choir performed well known larger works, as well as more obscure pieces. Members of Southern Voices also represented the choir during a tour to Braunschweig. This included an unforgettable collaborative performance of Haydn’s Creation within a choir of eight-hundred singers from around the world.
Southern Voices nurtures singers, it is a warm group of people who all share a love of music and performance. Jamal is a calm yet motivating conductor, he is passionate about the music and takes great pleasure in explaining the intricacies of a score, or the motivations of a composer. A scholarship with Southern Voices offers a valuable opportunity for musical development, whilst nurturing a love of the choral repertoire.'
-- Freya
I have thoroughly enjoyed my first month at Southern Voices - the choir is incredibly welcoming and my singing ability has benefitted from the musical director’s expertise. I have already had the opportunity to sing pieces by various composers (some quite challenging!) from the likes of Clemens to Górecki, in a recent weekend of services at Wells Cathedral which has led me to discover and love new pieces. I look forward to singing some more brilliant repertoire in the upcoming Christmas concert and the rest of my time at Southern Voices.
-- Maria
I have been part of Southern Voices for 2 months as a choral scholar and it has been so rewarding. The level of talent among the members is incredible - everyone brings such passion and skill to their singing. Beyond the music, the choir community has been very welcoming and friendly. I’m grateful to be part of such a talented and supportive group, and I’m excited to continue to grow and perform with the choir.
-- Eloise
