Serena Fenwick programme for singers

The Serena Fenwick Programme
The Serena Fenwick programme is our intensive career booster that offers something a bit different to other programmes in the UK. Run in partnership with Garsington Opera, the Serena Fenwick programme is open to anyone who feels they could benefit from it, but is particularly suited to applicants who can show they need a career boost. So that might be because they’re not in full-time education, or because they’ve taken ‘breaks’ for personal or financial reasons, or maybe they’re transitioning voice types or fachs (not an exhaustive list, just some examples)
“The masterclass with Adrian Kelly created an incredibly detailed and focused space that was also inclusive and fun. Every single singer expressed that they felt more confident and that they were singing with their voice after that session."
– 2026 participant

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The 2027 programme
There are three main types of activity on the Serena Fenwick programme:
- Saturday workshops – these will take place every other week in London from early January 2027 and cover topics including social media, intimacy and fight coordination, and vocal health
- Intensive weekends at Garsington Opera – in their new, state-of-the-art studios, you'll explore set repertoire with Garsington coaches, eventually building to a public sharing of your work
- Private coaching – following a goal-setting session early on in the programme, we'll pair you with a coach who will target the specific areas you want to focus on
You'll also automatically be considered for the following year's Alvarez Emerging Artists’ Programme at Garsington Opera.
who can apply
Anybody is welcome to apply for the Serena Fenwick programme – there are no formal entry requirements. Anyone who applies will be invited to audition.
You should make sure you have the right visa arrangements to complete our programmes.
Key dates
- 30 October 2026 – applications close
- 11 - 22 November – first round auditions (London, Belfast, Cardiff, Birmingham, Glasgow and Manchester)
- 4 - 6 December - recall auditions (London)
- December 2026 – applicants are offered places on the programme
- 7-9 January 2027 – opening weekend at Garsington Opera
- January–May – weekend workshops
- 30 March – all-day masterclass with special guest
financials
To submit an application you'll need to be a member of BYO hub (£33 a year), but taking part in our programmes is completely free. Accommodation will be offered when needed for multi-day activity. There is a limited hardship fund that you can apply to while you are on the programme, with priority given to participants travelling from further afield to take part.
applications and auditions
To apply, just hit the button at the bottom of this page. There is a single application form for all 2027 programmes for singers, so you'll need to know which programmes you're applying for before you fill out the form. Once you've completed your application you'll receive an email to book your audition – the earlier you apply the more audition slots will be available.
The application form contains space for a personal statement. This is a requirement if you're applying to the Serena Fenwick programme, and you should use it to explain to the panel how you think you'll benefit from the coaching and other activity offered on the programme.
When we've finished all first round auditions, we shortlist applicants. You'll receive an email either inviting you to book a recall audition, or telling you your application is no longer being considered.
faqs
All programmes in a career area (eg singing, directing, music staff) share an application form, so you can apply for all of those at the same time. You're also able to apply to programmes in multiple areas – just fill out each application form.
It is possible that you could be offered a place on the Serena Fenwick and summer programmes – the decisions on offering places take place independently. However each programme is offering something different, and you'll only be offered a place where the panel think that matches what you need.
There is no upper age limit to apply – you just need to be able to show your career would benefit from the training on offer. You must be at least 18 years old to apply for the programme.
Still have questions?
Email admin@byo.org.uk and we'll get back to you ASAP.
apply now
The deadline for applications is xxpm on xxx October 2026. Make sure you get yours in before then because we're not able to accept late applications.