Four RNCM vocal students have been accepted onto the 2014/15 Genesis Sixteen young artists’ scheme.
Mezzo-sopranos Rachel Maby and Lucy Vallis, tenor James Black, and bass-baritone Peter Edge will now benefit from a series of week-long and weekend courses held throughout the year led by key figures from the world-famous choral and orchestral ensemble The Sixteen. In addition, they will also receive group tuition, individual mentoring and masterclasses from some of the industry’s top vocal experts.
Talking of the opportunity Rachel, a fourth year studying on the RNCM’s Joint Course run in conjunction with the University of Manchester, said: ‘It’s an absolute honour to have been chosen to sing with Genesis Sixteen. It’s one of the few free choral professional engagements and music development programmes in the UK for young singers. I’m hoping it will lead to future professional engagements with fellow singers on the programme and music professionals connected with the course.’
Lynne Dawson, the RNCM’s Head of the School of Vocal Studies, added: ‘Genesis Sixteen is a highly competitive and sought after scheme for aspiring ensemble singers, and I’m thrilled that Rachel, Lucy and Peter have been chosen for the forthcoming year. The skills and experience they will learn from industry experts will prove invaluable to their development as professional singers.’
Established in 2011, Genesis Sixteen is the UK’s first ever fully-funded programme of its kind, offering unique and pioneering training opportunities to 22 young singers aged between 18 and 23. Thanks to a close partnership with the Genesis Foundation participants not only receive free tuition but also a bursary to cover all additional costs.
