Sestina Music | The Next Generation Mentoring Programme

“Sestina Music is a shining example of how a group should operate. They produce top quality, imaginative performances while also focusing on developing young artists, and bring this to audiences in a part of the world that is by no means spoilt for choice when it comes to classical music. Working with Sestina Music has been a highlight of my recent musical career, and I commend them to anyone as a sponsor, performer or audience member. “

SestinaMusic&MarkChambers(MusicalDirector)

About Us

In 2011, a group of young singers from Ulster Youth Choir (now NYCNI) had the opportunity to work with internationally renowned conductor Paul McCreesh and countertenor Mark Chambers in preparation for a landmark Proms performance of Mendelssohn’s Elijah in London’s Royal Albert Hall. The singers were so inspired by the experience of working among professional ensembles and soloists that they decided to establish their own ensemble in Northern Ireland focusing on mentoring and developing young aspiring professionalsingers,andsoSestinaMusicwasborn.

UnderthedirectionofMarkChambers,SestinaMusichasquicklydevelopedintoanearlymusicensemblewith areputationforexcellenceandauthenticityintheperformanceofearlymusicaswellasafreshandinnovative approach to programming. A resident ensemble of Fisherwick Presbyterian Church, Belfast, the support and developmentofaspiringprofessionalsingersfromNorthernIrelandandIrelandisatheartofSestinaMusic’s activities. Our Next Generation Mentoring Programme provides an immersive educational experience for youngperformersatvariousstagesoftheirtrainingandcareers,givingthemtheopportunitytodeveloptheir craftbyworkingalongsideworld-classprofessionals Theensemblefeaturessomeofthefinestspecialistearly music practitioners in the world. Sestina Music frequently collaborates with other ensembles for larger productions, including, His Majesty’s Sagbutts and Cornetts, The Monteverdi String Band, and Irish Baroque Orchestra

SestinaMusicnowboastsareputationforartisticexcellenceandannuallyproducesshowcaseperformances andtouringproductions.TheensembleisaregularfeatureinfestivalsandconcertseriessuchasEastCork EarlyMusicFestival(2018)andtheBarberEveningConcertSeries(2020).SestinaMusic’sdebutrecordingMaster&Pupil-inpartnershipwithResonusClassics,wasreleasedin2021

Vision

Promoting Artistic Excellence:

Sestina Music envisions a cultural landscape enriched by high-caliber musical performances They aim to be a beacon of musical artistry, inspiring and engaging audiences with exceptional performances.

Preserving Cultural Heritage:

Sestina Music is dedicated to preserving and promoting cultural heritage through its programming. They aim to celebrate diverse musical traditions and perform historically significant works to keep cultural legacies alive

Community Enrichment and Inclusivity:

Sestina Music aspires to be an inclusive and accessible organization that enriches the community They envision hosting events that bring people together, fostering unity, and ensuring that music remains a vital part of communal life.

Mission

Supporting Talented Musicians:

Sestina Music’s mission is to support and provide a platform for talented musicians to showcase their skills They are committed to elevating musical standards and contributing to the artistic development of performers.

Nurturing Emerging Talent:

Sestina Music is devoted to nurturing up-and-coming talent by offering educational initiatives, workshops, and performance opportunities. They aim to develop the next generation of musicians and music enthusiasts.

Educational Outreach and Community Engagement:

Sestina Music’s mission includes a strong focus on educational outreach and community engagement They provide workshops, and programmes designed to cultivate a deeper appreciation for early music, making it accessible to all members of the community

Unveiling the Past: What is Historically

Informed Performance?

Imagine experiencing the music of Beethoven or Handel not just as it sounds today, but as it would have been performed in their time. This is the essence of Historically Informed Performance (HIP), a captivating approach that bridges the gap between centuries.

AWindowintoPast:

For centuries, musicians have attempted to revive music from earlier eras. However, many early revivals incorporated modern instruments and styles. HIP goes beyond mere revival It's a meticulous exploration, combining research and period instruments to recreate performances as close as possible to the composer ' s original intent.

ThePowerofPeriodInstruments:

At the heart of HIP lies the use of instruments built or meticulously recreated from the period These instruments not only look different but also have a unique sound. From the warm timbre of Baroque violins and viola da gambas playing on gut strings, to the intricate action of harpsichords, these instruments transport us to the past.

BeyondtheNotes:

Early music was filled with unwritten nuances HIP delves into historical treatises and performance practices to understand how musicians approached dynamics, ornamentation, and even tuning. This meticulous research breathes life into the music, revealing the artistry and expression lost in modern interpretations

UnveilingtheHiddenLanguage:

Singers in HIP performances employ specific techniques to achieve a lighter, more flexible tone characteristic of the era Ornamentation, the art of adding decorative notes, becomes crucial Singers learn historically accurate styles of ornamentation, adding an improvisational flair to the music.

TheSearchforAuthenticity:

HIP relies heavily on historical documents like manuscripts, treatises, and concert reports This meticulous research paints a picture of performance practices, allowing musicians to recreate the sounds and techniques of the era

BeyondMusic

AContinuingJourney:

The quest for authenticity in HIP is a continuous process Scholars, musicians, and instrument makers are constantly researching and refining techniques. This ongoing pursuit ensures that audiences get the closest experience possible to the original performances

HIP principles can extend beyond music Imagine opera productions staged in the original theaters, with historically accurate costumes and acting styles. This holistic approach adds further depth and immersion to the HIP experience

Next Generation Mentoring Programme

Sestina Music’s Next Generation Mentoring Programme engages early-stage professionals bridging the gap between youth choir provision & young artist programmes. This apprenticeship-based programme is heavily focused on early (baroque) music, offering key educational opportunities whilst emerging vocal talent Unlike other young artist programmes which run as separate strands to an ensemble’s main performance activities, it is integral to our core work as an ensemble, giving young singers the opportunity to work alongside established professionals. Our focus is on developing versatile musicians, giving singers the chance to perform in ensembles of different sizes and as solo singers, and giving them valuable training in opera and stagecraft.

The earliest participants in our mentoring programme are now well established in their professional careers, performing regularly with ensembles such as Gabrieli Consort, Tenebrae, Monteverdi Choir, Grange Park Opera, Opera de Lyon, Garsington Opera and Welsh National Opera, as well as forming a core ensemble for Sestina Music’s showcase performances, touring and collaborations.

Highlights

A unique apprenticeship bridging the gap between youth choir provision & young artist programmes abroad.

Focuses on the development of versatile musicians through the exploration of Baroque Music. Offers crucial skill development opportunities, networking and international connections.

“My experience within the Next Generation Mentoring Programme was nothing short of excellent The entire Sestina Music team provided professional knowledge, support, and guidance to help me further my career as an aspiring classical performer. Their expertise in early music inspired me to further my practice into this genre and will continue to grow from this experience ” LukeCondon,April2024

Sestina Music: Next Generation

Nurturing the Future of Early Music

BridgingtheGap:

NorthernIrelandlacksadedicatedmusic conservatory,leavingasignificantgapin professionaldevelopmentforaspiringyoung singers,particularlythosetransitioningfrom academicsettingstoprofessionalcareers This translatestoalackofstructuredmentoring, practicalindustryinsights,andperformance opportunitiesspecificallytailoredtoearlymusic.

MeetingtheDemand:

WhileSestinaMusicworkshopsrevealedastrong desireforpersonalisedguidance,therewerefew opportunitiestoexploreearlymusicrepertoirein depthorgainpracticalexperiencewith HistoricallyInformedPerformance(HIP) techniques.

AGrowingNeed:

IndustrytrendsacrosstheUKandEuropeindicate agrowingdemandforwell-roundedearlymusic performers NGMPaddressesthisneedby providingholistictrainingthatgoesbeyondjust singing,equippingparticipantswiththeskills necessarytothriveintheprofessionalrealmof earlymusic.

TheNGMPSolution:

Recognisingthesechallenges,SestinaMusic designedtheNGMPasatargetedsolution.It providesyoungsingerswithdedicatedearly musicsupport,bridgingthegapbetweentheir educationandprofessionalpractice Through personalisedmentorship,skilldevelopment workshops,andperformanceopportunities, NGMPnurturestheskillsandconfidence necessaryforasuccessfulcareerinearlymusic.

Sestina Music's Next Generation Mentoring Programme (NGMP) fills a vital niche in the musical landscape of Northern Ireland.

Programme Outline

“In the profession today it is incredibly important to be a versatile musician. Unlike other ensembles I have sung with in both Ireland and the UK, Sestina Music is unique in that it provides its singers with the opportunity to explore so many aspects of performance including performing in ensembles of different sizes, performing as a soloist, opera and stagecraft To be a part of ensemble that breaks the mould, and incorporates all of these is truly special ”

Aaron O’Hare, tenor

Sestina Music's Next Generation Mentoring Programme (NGMP) is a prestigious two-stage programme designed to cultivate the next generation of early music stars Stage 1 offers a dynamic six-month online training program, equipping young singers with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the genre. Stage 2, the Intensive April Project, selects the most promising singers for an immersive performance experience, integrating them into Sestina Music's core ensemble and providing them invaluable mentorship and public performance opportunities across Ireland.

Auditions, Lectures and Presentations

To cultivate a pipeline of talented young singers, Sestina Music’s musical director delivers lectures and presentations at universities, conservatories, festivals, and choral societies, raising awareness of both Sestina Music and the Next Generation Mentoring Programme

Sestina Music prioritises inclusivity and excellence in its NGMP selections Auditions are held in three locations across Ireland, with a comprehensive social media and newsletter campaign targeting conservatories, choral societies, and universities to ensure the widest reach for

chosen for Stage 1, a dynamic six-month program designed r careers in early music.

cally informed performance with comprehensive webinars na Music’s musical director, Mark Chambers rom renowned directors like Bridget Cunningham of

focusing on career development and industry navigation. articipants expert guidance on vocal health, ensuring a long

sented, with a chance to forge lasting connections with enters

Sestina Music: Next Generation

Stage 1: Workshop

An intensive, in-person workshop is delivered, giving musical director Mark Chambers the opportunity to observe firsthand the singers’ skills and select the most promising individuals for Stage 2.

The workshop focuses on key areas:

Language & Music: An exploration of the intimate relationship between language and historically informed performance Participants delve into pronunciation specific to the period, ensuring clarity and authenticity in every word sung. Additionally, the exploration of rhetoric, the art of persuasive delivery, adds another layer of depth to their performances.

Choral Skills: Seamless ensemble performance is a hallmark of early music. Stage 1 hones these skills through rigorous training Participants not only develop their individual voices but also learn to blend beautifully within the choir, creating a unified and powerful sound. Team-building exercises further strengthen the bond between singers, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment

Body and Voice: A singer's instrument is their body. Stage 1 introduces participants to body mapping techniques – a holistic approach to vocal health By understanding the physical connection between body and voice, singers learn to optimize their breath control, posture, and resonance, ultimately enhancing their vocal performance and preventing injury

Stage 2: Intensive April Project

Stage 2 participants represent the very best of the NGMP talent pool. Annually, only 812 singers are chosen, allowing for intensive personalised training

Stage 2 is a whirlwind of learning and performance Rehearsals take place in Belfast, but the real magic is witnessed on stage.

Participants integrate seamlessly into Sestina Music's core ensemble, performing captivating early music repertoire for audiences across Ireland. Concerts are held in Northern Ireland & the Republic of Ireland, offering valuable cross-border performance experience

Beyond rehearsals, Stage 2 provides unparalleled access to expertise. Participants receive personalised tuition from experienced mentors and renowned early music instrumentalists This close collaboration allows singers to refine their technique, interpret music with greater depth, and gain crucial insights into the world of professional performance

Sestina Music is committed to artistic inclusivity. We offer per diems to cover basic expenses and provide accommodation for all participants, ensuring financial barriers don't hinder participation

Impact

Sestina Music's Next Generation Mentoring Programme (NGMP) plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of early music professionals. It provides high-quality vocal training and performance opportunities, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge to excel in the field. This not only benefits their careers but also enriches the cultural landscape. Beyond traditional repertoire, the NGMP often focuses on lesser-known genres like the French Baroque, introducing audiences to this unique musical style through captivating performances.

Sestina Music, through it’s core mission, has empowered a generation of early music singers like Beth Taylor and Aaron O’Hare, who have gone on to lead outstanding careers, a testament to the impact of this ensemble.

SEPTEMBER2024

NextGenerationMentoringProgrammeOpens forApplicants

Applicationsopenforthe2024-25NextGeneration MentoringProgramme.AuditionsareheldinBelfast, Dublin&Cork

LuxetUmbra|19th&20thSeptember|Belfast &Armagh

InanexplorationofFrenchBaroquemusic,rarely performedontheislandofIreland,LuxetUmbra emphasisesourcommitmenttoinnovative programming&artisticexcellence Featuringa nocturnefromMarc-AntoineCharpentier’s Leçon de Ténèbres forGoodFriday,theprogrammeoffersNI audiencesauniqueexperiencethatdrawson Armagh’shistoricalchoraltraditiondatingfromthe 9thcentury Witharichinstrumentalpaletteof recorders,viol,lute&harpsichordinconsortwithsolo singers,LuxetUmbra(Light&Darkness)reflectsthe naturaltransitionoftheyearasweembracethe darknessofWinter SestinaMusicpresentsaconcert ofmeditativestillness,performedonperiod instruments,offeringarareopportunitytoimmersein thisseldom-heardmusic.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER2024

NextGenerationMentoringProgramme Commences

Aseriesofinformativewebinarscommenceoverthe courseoftwomonths,coveringkeyeducationaltopics

withguestspeakers.The2024-25programmewillsee guestspeakerBridgetCunninghamofLondonEarly OperadiscussHandelianOperaswithparticipants CaitríonaO’MahonyofImprovisedMusicCompany discusseshowtoapplyforartisticfunding,musical directorMarkChamberslecturesonornamentationin early(baroque)music,auditionetiquette,andmore.

DECEMBER2024

NextGenerationMentoringProgramme Workshop

Inaninspiring‘in-person’workshop,theNext GenerationMentoringProgrammeparticipantscome togethertoexplorechoralsinging,vocalwellness educationwithaguestfacilitatorandteam-building exercises.

StellaSplendens|18December|Belfast Inanexcitingdevelopmentstemmingfromourrecent partnershipwithFisherwickPresbyterianChurch, SestinaMusicwillholditsmuch-anticipatedseasonal concert,nowtitled‘StellaSplendens’,initsresident venue.Thiseventmarkssignificantgrowthandartistic progressionfortheensemble,highlightingourvenue partnership NextGenerationMentoringProgramme alumniwillfeature,highlightingthetangibleimpactof theprogramme.Theconcertwillfeatureafusionof well-known&contemporaryseasonalpieces, includingnewcompositions&arrangements, underscoringSestinaMusic’scommitmenttoartistic excellence&creativevision

JANUARY-APRIL2025

NextGenerationMentoringProgramme continues

Informativewebinarscontinueoverthreemonths, preparingparticipantsforourAprilevent.

APRIL2025

ConcertSpirituel|25th-27thApril|Belfast, Wexford&Kilkenny

Inspiredbyoneofthefirstpublicconcertseriesin existence,SestinaMusicaimstorecreatetheinaugural performanceoftheConcertSpirituelinParison18 March,1725 Ambitiousinform,thiscelebrationof300 yearsofpublicconcertsfeaturestwomotetsandtwo orchestralsuitesbyMichelRichardDelalande,and ArchangeloCorelli’sChristmasConcerto. An impressiveensembleof17playersperformingon authenticperiodinstrumentsorfaithfulreplicaswill makethisaspectacularperformance Centraltothisprojectisitsroleas‘Stage2’ofourNext GenerationMentoringProgramme2024-25, representingapivotalstepinnurturingemerging talent 8newsingersjointheensemble,&benefitfrom mentorshipprovidedbyourprofessionalsingers

Education&Outreach

SingwithSestina:CantateDomino |25th-27th April2025|Belfast,Wexford&Kilkenny TakingplaceontheafternoonsoftheWexford, KilkennyandBelfastperformances,SingwithSestina isanincrediblyrareopportunityforamateursingersto ‘comeandsing’withaprofessionalchoirandbaroque ensemble.TheseworkshopsdirectedbyMark Chambers,providediverseenthusiasticsingerswith anopportunitytoengagewiththeartsastheydelve

”Sestina Music [is] a group fast developing a reputation for classy, intelligent programming of Baroque music, idiomatically sung and expertly accompanied on instruments of the period” Terry Blain, Culture Northern Ireland

intothenuancesofbaroquesinging,&learnabout baroqueinstrumentswithopportunitiestospeakwith themusicians.Digitallearningresourcesintheformof theChoralTrainerMobileApp,developedbyTristan Russcheraddressthephysicalbarriersofmusic literacy,makingearlymusicaccessibletoawider audience,whilstsupportinglocalinitiativesto promoteequalaccesstothearts.

SestinaMusicpresentsHarmonyHub Our2024-25children'seducationinitiative,'Harmony Hub,'fosterscommunitycohesionandarts accessibility.Throughinteractiveconcertswith Belfast'sManyFacesdramagroup,community centres,andschools,weaimtomakemusicinclusive foryounglearners Thesefreeconcertsspannursery andprimaryschoollevels,introducingchildrento earlymusicandhistoricalinstrumentswhile encouragingactiveparticipationandcuriosity.Ledby experiencededucatorsLaoiseO'BrienandMalachy Robinson,ourinitiativepromotesartsdevelopment andengagesdiverseaudiences

Sestina Music: Committed to Sustainability

Sestina Music believes that beautiful music can flourish alongside a healthy planet We are committed to minimising environmental impact and ensuring our activities are environmentally responsible. This commitment is woven into the fabric of our operations, from communication and travel to venue selection and event planning

Digital Communications

Sustainablilty starts with a focus on digital communication Sestina Music prioritises digital platforms for marketing, ticketing, and communication, significantly reducing paper waste Newsletters and promotional materials are primarily electronic, aligning with an eco-friendly approach

Travel

Travel is a key area where Sestina Music strives to reduce its carbon footprint. By leveraging the wealth of early music talent within Ireland, minimising travel distances for artists Additionally the use of public transportation and carpooling is encouraged among performers. s, and meetings are held virtually to further minimise are carefully coordinated to maximise efficiency and

ole in Sestina Music’s sustainability efforts. demonstrate a commitment to environmental energy-efficient lighting, waste-reduction programmes, of single-use plastics at all rehearsals water bottles and utensils are provided, encouraging a nt by artists and participants.

Board of Trustees

David Black - Chair

James Kelley - Treasurer

Irene Kingston - Secretary

Karenanne Coughlan-Pierse - Board member

Desmond Earley - Guest advisor

Paul McCreesh - Patron