April News
This April, we were treated to a wonderful showcase of music from the sensational Alexandra Meier, mezzo-soprano, who dazzled audiences across three unforgettable recitals.
The month began in style with Opera Cabaret at the stunning St Pancras Clock Tower in London — a lively and intimate afternoon of song featuring the music of Leonard Bernstein, Kurt Weill, and Benjamin Britten, with a cheeky nod to the hit musical Cabaret. Joined by the brilliant George Ireland on piano, Alex lit up the room with charm, poise, and thrilling vocal colour in one of London’s most atmospheric venues.
Later in April, Alex returned for two exquisite lecture recitals in London and Henley, titled Vengeance, Follies and Growth. This rich and emotionally layered programme explored everything from the furious vengeance of Händel, the passionate impulses of Mozart and Strauss, to the quiet sorrow of Massenet. Accompanied by the always-wonderful Lucy Colquhoun, Alex delivered powerful performances, combining vocal excellence with thoughtful, engaging commentary.
It was a joy to see Alex’s artistry shine so brightly throughout the month, and we know many of you were just as captivated as we were.
A huge thank you to Alex, George, and Lucy for filling our April with such glorious music — we can’t wait to welcome you back.
Success for Our Young Artists
Wonderful News for Ellen Pearson
We’ve had some truly thrilling news from beyond our own recital series this month — and we couldn’t be prouder!
Ellen Pearson, mezzo-soprano and Opera Prelude Young Artist, recently competed in the prestigious Kathleen Ferrier Awards, where she not only reached the final but also won the coveted Ferrier-Loveday Song Prize. Her collaborative pianist, the brilliant Francesca Lauri, was also recognised, winning the Accompanist Prize. We are absolutely over the moon for them both — what a remarkable achievement!
As if that weren’t enough, we were overjoyed to learn that Ellen will be joining the Royal Opera House after the summer as a member of the Jette Parker Young Artists Programme. This is a fabulous next step for a fabulous singer, and we know she will bring all her poise, passion, and artistry to that world-class stage.
Please do join us in sending Ellen and Francesca our warmest congratulations. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for them both!
Stephen Whitford Shines in La Cenerentola
Elsewhere this month, we were delighted to see Stephen Whitford, baritone and Opera Prelude Young Artist, take to the stage as Dandini in Hurn Court Opera’s production of La Cenerentola. The production ran from 14th–18th April, touring various venues across the southeast.
The performances were met with enthusiastic acclaim, and we were especially thrilled to see Opera Today single Stephen out for praise in their glowing review:
“There was convincing chemistry too with Stephen Whitford as a flamboyant Dandini, a natural cockscomb who had a high old time with his deceptions, prompting a genuine sense of pathos when accepting his sudden return as a valet. His pouting was superbly delivered.”
A richly deserved shoutout for a witty, spirited, and memorable performance — bravo, Stephen! We can’t wait to see where your path leads next.