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This summer as a Fellow with the National Youth Choir’s Emerging Professional Artists programme has been nothing short of wild, busy, and inspiring. From Blackpool to Hereford, Rutland to Suffolk, I’ve had the privilege of learning from incredible musicians, reconnecting with the NYC family, and stretching myself as both a singer and leader.

From London to Blackpool to Hereford back to London!

My summer kicked off with the National Youth Choir (18-25 Years) course in Blackpool, before heading to Hereford to perform in the Three Choirs Festival. I had the chance to join the tenor section, discover new repertoire, and meet some truly amazing singers. Recording pieces by the young composers was a real highlight. From a murder mystery to sandwich recipes, to a whimsical bicycle ride to musings on magic, it was a privilege to sing such cool new music. I especially valued being able to sit in the recording booth and watch Josh Quinlan produce Roderick Williams’ I’m Here. I also got to lead the full choir in an experiential singing warm down, which was both fun and a little surreal. And then there was my slightly embarrassing feature in the infamous NYC News, where my warm down—complete with impressions of the basses and their moo-ing noises—was given its own segment!

Learning from Nic Chalmers, discovering such cool music and meeting so many amazing young musicians was a real joy.

From London to Rutland and then to London!

Next stop was Rutland to observe the National Youth Choir (15-18 Years) course. From the moment I arrived, I felt integrated into the NYC family. Conversations with staff members at mealtimes were incredibly valuable, and reconnecting with Ben and Kathryn Parry after many years was a lovely surprise (I was a member of the choir in 2018 when Ben was Principal Conductor!). Observing Mariana Rosas in rehearsal was particularly inspiring—her attention to detail, high standards, and warmth created such a wonderful atmosphere. I loved the variety of repertoire, from Kate Rusby and AURORA through to traditional Italian polyphony, and the recording of Adrian Peacock’s Veni, Gaudete! was a standout moment. I also enjoyed learning Spanish pronunciation from Mariana and picking up countless little tricks from staff to refine my musicianship. Towards the end of the week, I led a tenor sectional, which gave me the chance to put my skills into practice. More than anything, I was struck by the professionalism and positivity of the young singers, who met every challenge with enthusiasm. A quick trip back to London to do some work before the next stop on the wild summer tour…

From London to Suffolk to Saffron Walden to London!

The final stage of my summer was in Suffolk on the National Youth Choir (9-15 Years) course, where I worked as a section coach alongside Fionnuala Ward with the senior Soprano 2s. The week was a mix of highs and lows, as illness struck me partway through (later diagnosed as strep throat). But before that, there were some incredible moments. Watching Lynsey Callaghan conduct was electrifying—her energy, humour, and musicianship are second to none, and I learnt so much from her. Having once been taught by Lynsey when I was a young singer myself in Northern Ireland, it felt like a full-circle moment. I also discovered a special Northern Irish connection with Fionnuala—we realised we had both played in the same youth orchestra growing up! Leading the Soprano 2s was a privilege, particularly working on Bob Chilcott’s Like a Singing Bird, where we achieved a flowing, spine-tingling sound. There were plenty of laughs too, especially when we created silly choreography for Thulele Mama Ya. I even had the chance to lead a full-choir warm-up with Billy the Kid, complete with instrumental sound effects and dancing from the staff—such a joy to see everyone join in.

When illness meant I had to go on vocal rest later in the week, I was so grateful for the kindness and support of the music staff. Fionnuala and I found ways to keep leading together (my silent conducting and hand signals interpreted by Fionnuala verbally), and the team made sure I was still involved. The final concert was extraordinary—the singers performed the entire programme from memory with such energy and brilliance that I was left utterly gobsmacked.

So, what now?

Looking back, this summer has been exhausting but also deeply rewarding. You’re only an Emerging Professional Artist once, and I was determined to make the most of it. From working with Nic Chalmers, Mariana Rosas, and Lynsey Callaghan to connecting with so many inspiring young singers, I feel incredibly lucky to be part of this scheme. And it’s not over yet—this autumn brings the NYC Discovery Weekend and another recording of young composers’ pieces. What a privilege it is to be part of the NYC family.

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