Vocal Summer School

Summer Schools

Vocal Summer School

The Vocal Summer School offers a comprehensive programme aimed at talented young singers, aged 14 to 18, who wish to hone their vocal technique and take their singing to the next level.

Dates now confirmed: Sunday 19 July to Friday 24 July

This intensive five-day course includes expert tuition, individual coaching sessions with a professional piano accompanist, Alexander Technique classes, daily half-day workshops in acting and sung languages, as well as mindfulness and yoga, solo performance opportunities and a full-day masterclass with a renowned pedagogue. The course will give young singers a well-rounded introduction to what is required as a classical artist. Ideal for those who are considering applying to study at conservatoire, university and aspire to sing at a professional level. It is also perfect for those who simply wish to hone their vocal skills in an atmosphere which is enjoyable, supportive, and encouraging.  

Who is the Vocal Summer School for? 

The course is suitable for classical singers aged 14 to 18, Grade 7 or above (ABRSM or Trinity) or who are singing at an equivalent level. Following a video submission, successful applicants will be invited to take part. 

Course highlights
  • One-to-one singing lessons
  • One-to-one vocal coaching
  • One-to-one Alexander Technique 
  • Introduction to Improvisation  
  • Daily half-day workshops including Acting/Stagecraft, Italian Arias, German Leider and French Melodie 
  • Daily Yoga and Mindfulness sessions  
  • Performance Classes  
  • A full-day masterclass 
  • Participation in the final concert held in the magnificent St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral. 
  • Informal concerts by staff and participants  
  • Fun and engaging evening activities including a walking tour of Edinburgh’s historic city centre.  
Course leaders
  • Kate Aitken - Course Director
  • Anna Michels - Vocal Coach

To findout more about our Vocal Summer School course leaders please visit the Our Staff page.

Applications are now open. Please click on the link below to complete the application form: 

Application Form 

Please note the closing date for applications is 5 June 2026. 
If you have any questions, please contact our admissions department.   
admissions@smms.uk | 0131 538 7766

Location, accommodation and facilities

St Mary’s Music School is one of five specialist music schools in the UK, providing the highest standard of music training and development. The School is located right in the heart of the stunning city of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland and home to the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh International Fringe Festival.  

Access to the School is easy with a quick journey by tram, bus or taxi from Edinburgh International Airport which is just 20 minutes away and has direct access to airports throughout the UK and abroad. Haymarket train station is just two minutes' walk away.  

As well as making use of our extensive practice rooms, students will enjoy all the facilities of this historic school, including twin ensuite bedrooms (sharing with one other student), beautiful gardens, sports court, and table tennis and pool tables.  

Fees and admission

The Vocal Summer School is a fully inclusive residential course with a fee of £1,050 (Travel not included but funding is available). 

Fees for the 2025 Vocal Summer School are £1,050 incl. VAT.

Up to 100% funding is available towards fees and travel expenses with all applications for financial assistance being warmly welcomed. Bursaries will be allocated on a means-tested basis. Please contact Dr JoAnna Collings, Bursar at bursar@smms.uk for more information.   

Dr. JoAnna Collings
Bursar
Email 

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