Do you love singing with others?

Could your passion be your future career?

If you are a teenager who loves singing in a choir and would like to take your singing skills to the next level, Tenebrae Academy is for you.

What is Tenebrae Academy?

Tenebrae Academy is a fully funded choral training programme for teenagers who love singing in a choir but currently face challenges and limited opportunities to progress.

Led by members of the internationally renowned chamber choir Tenebrae and their director, Nigel Short, this opportunity will develop your choral singing skills and prepare you for the next step in your musical journey.

The 2026–27 programme will run across six Saturdays (full days) and will culminate in a public concert. Through coaching and side-by-side singing opportunities, the programme will help you develop key choral skills such as sight-reading and ensemble singing in a friendly and encouraging environment. You will explore potential pathways in choral music and receive guidance to help you take your next step after completing the Academy programme. This will also be a great chance to meet other like-minded young people, create fun memories, and make friends through shared experiences.

Tenebrae Academy is generously supported by the Brindle Foundation.

Where will Tenebrae Academy take place?

The 2026/27 programme will be based in central London.

Who is Tenebrae Academy for?

We are committed to removing barriers to access and providing opportunities to teenagers from backgrounds currently underrepresented in choral music. We especially encourage applications from young people from a global majority background (Black, Asian and traditionally underrepresented ethnic groups), as well as those from low-income households who attend state school or are home-schooled.

Will this cost me anything?

No – the sessions are fully subsidised for all participants, thanks to the generous support of the Brindle Foundation.

We will cover the cost of your tube, train or bus travel within London (TFL daily off-peak fare, zones 1-9). Additional support is available for participants with special access needs.

Unfortunately, we are unable to cover travel costs from outside of London.

How do I apply for Tenebrae Academy?

Applications for 2026-27 programme are now closed.

Email [email protected] if you’d like to be added to a mailing list and hear about recruitment for 2027–28.