The Rodolfus Foundation's Choral Courses are designed to inspire young singers, bringing together like-minded individuals from across the world. Over the week, you'll hone your vocal skills under the guidance of renowned choral experts while forging lifelong friendships.
Receive guidance from renowned choral directors
Explore a wide range of choral music
Perform in prestigious venues across the country
Build lifelong friendships with like-minded singers
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At the centre of each Choral Course is the choir formed by all participants, coming together to prepare for the sung services and concerts. Each singer also has two private singing lessons with one of our experienced teachers. Throughout the week, you’ll take part in a variety of sessions, including sight-reading, aural skills, and performance practice, alongside vocal masterclasses, a cappella workshops, and coaching from visiting conductors. We support those thinking about choral scholarships and offer guidance for singing beyond school.
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The Senior Choral Courses are open to singers aged 16 to 21 (or 15 in year 11). No auditions are required—whether you’re preparing for university or a choral scholarship, or simply love singing and want to improve, we welcome singers of all experience levels. Some senior courses may also accept singers who are 15 and in Year 10.
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On a Senior Choral Course, each day starts with a choir warm-up, followed by rehearsals and individual lessons. Participants are grouped into consorts, where they work on improving sight-singing and vocal blending under the guidance of one of the course assistants. Afternoon masterclasses with visiting professionals provide additional exciting learning opportunities. The course includes two sung services and concludes with a final performance. Wellbeing activities and social time ensure a balanced and enriching experience throughout the week. To learn more about the course structure, click here.
“My course was by far the most transformative choral experience that I’ve had in my life.”
“I would not be where I am now without the Choral courses.”
“The course boosted my confidence and motivated me to apply and win a choral scholarship at Oxford.”
“It was without a doubt the best week of my life!”
FAQs
How old do I need to be? To come on a Senior Choral Course you should be aged between 15 (in year 11) and 21. If you fall just outside of this age bracket we may still be able to accommodate you so please get in touch.
What time does the course start and finish? The timings for the Choral Courses are different this year. You should arrive between 11am and 11:30am on the first day, and the final day will conclude between 5pm and 6pm.
Do I need to attend the whole course? Yes, full attendance is expected. Singers should be available for each day of the course and should not plan to arrive late or leave early.
Do I need to audition? There are no auditions for any of our courses; all we ask for is enthusiasm and a love of singing.
Are meals and accommodation included? The course is fully residential, so everything is included.
I’m taking my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. Do the courses count towards the residential element? Yes! We can write a report for you, but you must provide us with your ID number before the course starts.
Do you offer any opportunities for organists? The primary focus of the course is on choral singing, but organists can also benefit from dedicated sessions on repertoire, improvisation, and keyboard skills.
Do you require a reference? To confirm your place on a senior course, we require a reference from your singing teacher, Director of Music, or someone who knows you well. Please be assured that it will have no bearing on your being accepted for a course. We only need it to make sure we put you into correct groups while on the course. A copy of this form is emailed to you on completion of your application.
Do you offer bursaries? Yes, bursaries are available for those who may not be able to afford the cost of a course, and you can apply for one as part of your application for a place on the course. You can read more about the bursary process here.
When can I apply? Applications will open in January 2025. Make sure you’re on the mailing list to be the first to hear when you can register for your course.
How can I contact the Rodolfus Foundation? Head to the contact page to send us a message.