About

At Grasmere Song we work with students through the exploration of words interwoven with music. We prioritise deep textual interpretation, with music enhancing the vivid imagery of the poetry. Based in the Lake District, we welcome singers and pianists from music college, professionals developing their craft and passionate amateurs eager to learn from inspiring musicians.

We create a collaborative teaching environment where participants can immerse themselves in intensive training and artistic development. Through masterclasses, one-to-one lessons, repertoire coaching and performances, students refine their skills and understand what it is to find their own creative voice.

Our inaugural course ran as an extended weekend in 2025. Based in the village of Ambleside at the head of Lake Windermere, join us this summer for wholesome food by local caterers and en-suite rooms with breakfast and dinner at the University of Cumbria, Ambleside.

Join us at Grasmere Song Mon 16 – Sun 22 August 2027.

Photos: Stephen Tanno 2025

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.