This London summer school is looking for musically gifted kids to enrol

Talented young singers and pianists in London are being invited to apply for summer courses in one of the UK’s leading music schools.

St Mary’s Music School in Edinburgh will run the intensive five-day courses which are available to talented teenagers across the UK.

Those taking part in the piano school will even get to perform at an August concert finale in the city, while singers will participate in a final showcase at the nearby St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral.

Previous participants have hailed the impact of the programmes, which are run by specialist expert tutors.

The vocal school is for aspiring classical singers aged 14 to 18 who want to “take their singing to the next level” in an “enjoyable, supportive and encouraging” environment. It will run from Sunday, July 19 to Friday, July 24.

The piano school is for 13-to-17-year-olds and involves “expert tuition, individual coaching, solo performance opportunities and collaboration with a chamber music coach”. It runs from Sunday, August 2 until Friday, August 7

As well as music lessons, both programmes offer workshops in mindfulness, yoga and an examination of the mental and physical skills required to be an elite performer.

The courses take place in the school’s historic premises in city's famous west end.

For applications to the piano school visit - https://www.stmarysmusicschool.co.uk/piano-summer-school

And for applications to the vocal school visit - https://www.stmarysmusicschool.co.uk/vocal-summer-school

Helena Buckmayer, piano summer school course director for St Mary’s Music School, said:

“Our programme is uniquely designed so that we get to know every participant well.

“When we designed the structure of the course, we tried to create a holistic yet highly specialised experience.

“Every year, we have been impressed by the musical and pianistic developments, witnessing some impressive performances at our public concert at the end of the week.”

Kate Aitken, head of voice at St Mary’s Music School, said:

“This programme is for young classical singers who are looking to hone their vocal skills in a supportive, encouraging and inspirational environment.

“To round off the course, participants will take part in a lunchtime concert in the breathtaking St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, allowing the singers the opportunity to showcase and celebrate what they’ve worked on during the week with friends and family.

“Whether pupils are preparing to audition for a place at a conservatoire or would like to explore singing more seriously, the vocal summer school will help take their singing to the next level.”

Former participants have also praised the programme.

Julia, who attended a previous piano summer school at St Mary’s, said:

“It was an incredible experience that not only improved my technique, but also other aspects of my piano playing such as improvising, performing and having a good mindset.

“What really stood out to me was that I got to meet amazing like-minded people.

“I really enjoyed listening to these talented young pianists as well as spending time with them.”

Deia, who attended a previous summer vocal school at St Mary’s, said:

“The vocal summer school was an invaluable experience which really helped develop both technique and performance aspects of my singing.

“A highlight for me would definitely be the masterclasses we took part in each day. From acting workshops to a singing masterclass, it was a brilliant learning experience.

“The course also gave me to opportunity to meet lovely singers from across the world. I really enjoyed hearing other young singers in both our daily performances classes and the final concert.”