We are delighted to share the fantastic news that Year 11 student Sophie Milner has been accepted into the Samling Academy, part of the internationally respected Samling Institute for Young Artists.
This is an outstanding achievement. Samling Academy brings together some of the most talented young classical singers from across the country. Places are highly sought after, with applicants ranging from school age singers to undergraduates already pursuing music at an advanced level. Sophie’s selection recognises both her potential and the excellent progress she has made through her recent vocal training with our singing teacher Davina Halford Macleod .
Samling Academy provides young singers with opportunities to work intensively with leading professional singers, coaches, pianists and specialists, developing areas including vocal technique, interpretation, musicianship and performance. Academy Singers have subsequently progressed to leading conservatoires and careers within the profession.
Our relationship with Samling has developed considerably over the 12 months. Last year, Ponteland High School was delighted to be accepted as one of Samling’s Singing Schools, giving our students opportunities to work directly with professional musicians and vocal specialists. Sophie was one of the students who benefited from the programme, and Samling specifically recognised the progress she has made since taking part. There will be further opportunities later this year for more of our students to benefit from our Singing School partnership.
Students who enjoy singing can also get involved in our own Junior and Senior Choirs, which rehearse after school till 4.30 pm every Tuesday. The choirs are open to students who would like to develop their singing, perform with others and take part in the growing number of vocal opportunities available at Ponteland.
Our partnership with Samling continued this weekend when Ponteland High School hosted a Samling Academy event, welcoming young singers alongside an exceptional team of tutors from leading conservatoires in the UK and across Europe. It was a privilege for the school to provide a venue for musicians working at such a high level and another exciting step in our relationship with Samling.
Sophie’s progression from Samling Singing Schools to Samling Academy is a wonderful example of where these opportunities can lead. Gaining a place amongst such talented young singers is a remarkable achievement, and we are extremely proud of her.
Congratulations, Sophie!