Led by Audrey Hyland, Head of Vocal & Opera at the Royal College of Music, London we invite an exceptional team of musicians and educators to the Lake District. In 2026 we welcomed masterclass guests Sir Thomas Allen, Dame Josephine Barstow, Richard Farnes CBE, Ann Murray DBE, our Patron Nicky Spence OBE and Roderick Williams OBE.

Updates to follow for our next course
Mon 16 – Sun 22 August 2027

London Fundraising Concert | Tue 28 April 2026 | 7:00pm

National Liberal Club, 1 Whitehall Place, London, SW1A 2HE

This concert to raise awareness about Grasmere Song and share in the ethos that makes our course so special each summer took place on 28 April 2026 to a full house.

[See our facebook page for photos from that event]

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“We launched Grasmere Song to empower singers and pianists to develop their artistic growth. Set against an idyllic Cumbrian backdrop, we nurture the rich connection between words and music, putting communication at the heart of singing and accompaniment.

“Through coaching, lessons and masterclasses we encourage you to find your own creative voice with insight and individuality. Whether in class, performance or discussions over walks and locally prepared meals, we look forward to welcoming you this summer.”

Audrey Hyland,
Artistic Director, Grasmere Song
Head of Vocal & Opera, Royal College of Music

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Every contribution has a significant impact. Should you be interested in supporting our work, please see our Donor Pack for further information.

Learn from leading tutors & coaches

At Grasmere Song we offer an opportunity to study with some of the most respected figures in vocal and piano performance. Audrey Hyland, our Artistic Director and Head of Vocal & Opera at the Royal College of Music, leads an acclaimed team including Jane Irwin, Head of Vocal Studies at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Our collective expertise ensures students receive guidance rooted in academic excellence and professional artistry. READ MORE

A chance to sing & shine

Grasmere Song also welcomes talented amateurs who want to immerse themselves in the participation and observation of classes with our specialist teaching team. We offer opportunities to learn new repertoire, improve vocal technique, and experience the thrill of performing in… READ MORE

Professional development in practice

Grasmere Song is more than a summer course; it’s a career development hub. Through the Professional Path, singers perform for industry professionals, who provide individual feedback, demystifying the audition process and helping artists present themselves with confidence. Directly as a result of Grasmere Song in 2025, three participants were offered contracts at UK companies across their 2026 season. READ MORE

Lakes & fells – inspiration at every turn

Our setting at Grasmere Song is as inspiring as the music itself. Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Ambleside and Grasmere provide a backdrop of mountains, lakes, and historic villages. Led by Sir Thomas Allen, in 2025 participants joined the Lake Poets Walk, tracing the footsteps of… READ MORE

2026 Highlights

\Masterclasses with Sir Thomas Allen, Dame Josephine Barstow, Richard Farnes CBE, Ann Murray DBE, our Patron Nicky Spence OBE and Roderick Williams OBE.

\The Emily Hoh Pianist Prize has been awarded to collaborative pianist Yihan Zhao, covering full fees to attend the course and support student singers in classes, rehearsals and performances.

\Six scholarships covering full fees and several part-scholarships are available for singers. A recording and letter must be submitted at the point of application for consideration.

\The Adrian Clarke Vocal Awards of £1,000 and £500 will be presented at the end of the course by his wife Sarah Pring to two singers who have shown exceptional promise in performance and text interpretation.

\One-to-one lessons with leading teachers, conductors and coaches.

\Classes covering song, oratorio, opera and musical theatre.

\Come & Sing Choir with local singers, culminating in performance alongside course participants at St. Mary’s Ambleside in honour of Dame Janet Baker, who will be attending the Chapel Concert.

\The Lake Poets Walk around Rydal Water from Ambleside to Grasmere Village.

\Opportunities to observe classes and coaching.

\Evening concerts with course participants.

Classes

Guests & Tutors

Events & more

There are lots of opportunities to be with us at Grasmere Song, even if you’re not a course participant. You can sing in the choir, join the Lake Poets Walk, observe classes and attend concerts. Sign up in advance!