We are excited to announce that applications are now open for the second edition of our young artist programme, named this year in memory of our late patron James Bowman CBE.

This is a professional development opportunity for four young singers aged 18 – 25 who particularly enjoy acting and drama. Prior experience of singing classical or Baroque repertoire is not essential! 

We are looking for a soprano, alto (of any gender), tenor and baritone/bass.

Our four singers will end the project by performing a dramatised version of Henry Purcell’s ‘Masque of the Four Seasons’ from The Fairy Queen – accompanied by leading instrumentalists from our VB Band – for a private event at The Vache in Buckinghamshire. Preceding this, there will be two full days of movement and staging rehearsals lead by VB Artistic Director Jonathan Darbourne and renowned director and musician, Thomas Guthrie.

There will also be a vocal masterclass with a Baroque-specialist singer (to be announced), where each singer will work on another Purcell song. Our founders will also give a short mentoring talk considering areas such as auditions, CVs, and digital presence. Singers will also have new headshots taken by our wonderful photographer Michael Wheatley.

Accommodation and meals will be provided on all three days & travel bursaries are available to all participants

Vache Baroque is an equal opportunities organisation and we would love to hear from candidates from all walks of life, regardless of race, identity, physical ability, culture, or financial position.

We believe in a commitment to drama when vocalising and do not have preconceptions about how this should or shouldn’t be achieved. Just as there are many styles of dancing, so there are many ways of singing, moving, and acting. If you think you could give Purcell’s music life, then this could be the project for you. Don’t know his music? Here are two contrasting videos, dramatic in very different ways:

PBO Musical Postcard — Davóne Tines sings “The Cold Song” by Purcell

Helen Charlston sings “Dido’s Lament” by Purcell — OAE film inspired by Coldplay