Genesis Sixteen young artists’ scheme

About Genesis Sixteen

Genesis Sixteen is The Sixteen’s free young artists’ scheme for 18-23 year olds, which aims to nurture the next generation of talented ensemble singers.

Genesis Sixteen has become an integral part of what The Sixteen does and the quality of young singers remains incredibly high.  We want to recruit from the widest possible geographical and social backgrounds to help secure a vibrant future for choral singing in this country.  We are, as always, indebted to The Genesis Foundation for its dedication to this cause.

Harry Christophers CBE

During the course of a year, a series of week-long and weekend courses based in the UK are led by key figures from The Sixteen, including founder and conductor Harry Christophers and associate conductor Eamonn Dougan.

Participants receive group tuition, individual mentoring and masterclasses run by some of the industry’s top vocal experts. Thanks to a close partnership with the Genesis Foundation participants not only receive free tuition but also a bursary to cover all additional costs.

This is the UK’s first ever fully funded programme of its kind and alumni from the first seven years have already had much success since graduating. Many are now performing, recording and touring with professional groups, including The Sixteen. A number of them have set up their own choirs and are showing true entrepreneurialism in developing their brand and reputation on the music circuit.

How to apply

The Genesis Sixteen scheme lasts for one year, during which singers take part in two week-long courses and two weekend courses. There are 22 places available in the scheme each year. In order to apply for the 2022/3 programme you must be aged between 18 and 23 on Sunday 21 August 2022, be resident in the UK, receive regular singing lessons and be free for all the course dates without exception.

• Course 1: Oxford
  Sunday 21 – Saturday 27 August 2022
• Course 2: Manchester
  Friday 4 – Sunday 6 November 2022
• Course 3: Cardiff
  Friday 17 – Sunday 19 February 2023
• Course 4: London
  Monday 10 – Sunday 17 July 2023

Applications for the 2022/3 group are now open and the deadline for applications is Friday 21 January 2022.

For full details of the application process please visit The Sixteen’s website.