Choral Scholarships

Choral scholarships are generously funded by Banco Santander as a part of the Santander Universities Scheme. Each year Royal Holloway offers a number of Choral Scholarships on each voice part. Scholarships are normally held for three years and the maximum award has recently been raised to £700 per annum (choral). Singing lessons are provided where there is not already provision from within the degree programme. Scholars are also given preferential treatment for accommodation.

Choral Scholars for the Chapel Choir (The Choir of Royal Holloway) and will also support the work of the College Chorus and, in their 1st year, the Founder's Choir. The regular weekly routine for choral scholars involves an evening rehearsal on Tuesday, a short morning service on Wednesday (8.45-9am) and a 30-minute lunchtime concert. On Thursday there is a choral Evensong according to the Book of Common Prayer. There are no services on a Sunday morning, which means that, unless there are concerts or other special events, choral scholars are free to pursue other professional work in London during the weekend subject to consultation with the Director of Choral Music.

Choral Scholars will be expected to attend all choir practices and services; they will also be expected to give general help with choir arrangements. Some events such as recordings and concerts will be scheduled outside of academic term time and it is expected that all scholars will be available, if required, for these events. Where possible, expenses for all of these events will be met. It is preferred, but not essential, for potential choral scholars to have had relevant experience in church singing. Good sight-reading skills are essential. Countertenors and contraltos are equally welcome.

Past singers of the College include the international soloists Dame Felicity Lott, Susan Bullock, Sarah Fox and many others with successful musical careers. A number now sing with ensembles including The Sixteen, The Gabrieli Consort, The Tallis Scholars and Polyphony.

"the training I received as a Choral Scholar at Royal Holloway was invaluable, and has helped me enormously in my subsequent career."
Susan Bullock, Music alumna, internationally renowned Soprano
& Honorary Fellow of Royal Holloway