Ilkley Choral Society has announced that applications are now open for its successful choral scholarships scheme for the 2023/24 season.
The scholarships are aimed at budding professional singers aged 18-30; who are looking to work in the music field as a soloist, an ensemble singer, or with choirs in some capacity.
The scholars join Ilkley Choral Society in their weekly rehearsals, joining them for their four performances and with the opportunity for solo performances, and leading warm ups and sectional rehearsals. They also receive a £1000 honorarium.
It is particularly suitable for those looking to broaden their knowledge of choral repertoire, improve their sight-singing, gain performance experience and work on their leadership skills.
The scheme ran for the first time last year and the three successful choral scholars Thomas Coyle (Tenor), Ciara Reed (Soprano), Charles Murray (Bass) and the choir agreed it had been a very successful initiative.
Ciara Reed, Soprano choral scholar “getting the opportunity to work amongst such a supportive, friendly and encouraging group of people really improved my confidence, both personally and in my ability as a singer”
Thomas Coyle, Tenor choral scholar “I really enjoyed the chance to sing as a soloist with an orchestra as I hadn’t had the opportunity before, and I appreciated the coaching from the musical director, as chances to learn from other people in the industry are always valuable.”
The choir are an ambitious and friendly group of around 60 singers who enjoy singing large scale choral works. Most of their concerts are performed alongside their sister organisation, Otley Choral Society. Rehearsals take place from 7.30-9.30pm on Monday evenings at ChristChurch in Ilkley – a venue which is easily accessible by train from Leeds & Bradford.
Musical Director Jennifer Sterling “It has been amazing to see these singers flourish and develop over the last year. Each scholar had different areas they wanted to improve on and we were able to offer opportunities to cater to each of their needs. It has been wonderful to see their confidence improve, leadership skills develop, and to benefit from their skills within the choir”
Details can be found on the choir website ilkleychoral.org.uk/wp/scholarships with applications closing on the 19th July 2023.