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RSCM Emerging Leaders

The RSCM Emerging Leaders Programme is for aspiring choral directors who are looking to develop the skills they need to be a future leader. A programme of online sessions makes the most of both professional input and peer support to help you become a more rounded and adaptable musician, able to contribute positively to the world of church music in the 21st century.

As an Emerging Leader, you will:

  • Learn from experienced musicians and leaders on topics that provide practical support, widen your knowledge and challenge your thinking.
  • Grow your own network of future choral leaders at a similar stage, sharing skills, ideas and experiences.
  • Benefit from a year’s free Individual Membership of the RSCM (digital magazines).

The Emerging Leader programme runs from July 2025 to June 2026, with online workshops and discussions spread through the year. The programme is free to take part in and you can be based anywhere in the UK – all you need is enthusiasm and an internet connection! Places will be limited to ensure that everyone can take part in discussions.

Up to four of those taking part in the wider programme will be invited to join our residential courses for young people in August 2025, giving you the opportunity to try out your developing choral direction skills in a real-life environment, with the support of experienced professional musicians.

“[Being an Emerging Leader] has renewed my confidence in myself as a conductor and my leadership skills. It has also inspired me to carry on learning and developing my skills. I will certainly be seeking out other opportunities and courses where I can grow more as a conductor and leader. I feel really positive and enthusiastic about the future. It’s really exciting to get a sense of what I can do and where I can go in my career as a choir director.” 2024 Emerging Leader

“[The residential course] was truly invaluable. It has helped demystify the process of working with younger singers and how you can create amazing vocal performances in a comprehensive and efficient way. I would love to complete a Choral Conducting Masters at some point in the near future, and found this a great stepping stone in working at a higher musical level. I will take this experience with me, especially things like vocal technique production, expression and personal conducting gesture.” 2024 Emerging Leader

Are you…

  • An experienced choral singer and/or organist (aged 18+) based in the UK, who is interested in exploring choral direction and leadership?
  • Keen to learn and develop your skills, willing to explore new things, and open to taking advice and direction?
  • Mature, responsible and organised and ready to engage with the challenges of working with singers, especially young people?
  • In sympathy with the ethos and aims of the RSCM?

Sounds interesting?

Applications for 2025/26 are now open. The closing date for applications is 17.00 (GMT) on Tuesday 25 March.

The Application Process

Please complete the application form. The application form will ask you for the details of two referees, one of whom should be able to speak about any experience you have in choral direction.

As part of the application form, you will be asked to indicate your availability for the summer course dates (Thursday 7 – Sunday 10 August and Monday 18 – Sunday 24 August).

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an online interview with members of the RSCM Education Team.
If you are shortlisted, we will also ask you to send us a short video (10-12 minutes) which shows you directing a choir. This video should include:

    • 7-8 minutes rehearsing a choral piece
    • 3-4 minutes ‘performing’/running-through the piece you’ve just rehearsed

    You can choose any sacred choral work (accompanied or unaccompanied) which is scored in at least two vocal parts. The choir can be of any shape or size (if it includes under 18s, please ensure you have the necessary parent/guardian permissions to record). We wouldn’t expect you to cover everything in your rehearsal; we’re just looking for a snapshot of the skills you’ve developed so far and how you approach a rehearsal.

    Successful candidates will be offered a place provisionally, subject to completion of safeguarding checks.

  • If selected to attend a course, the role requires a satisfactory DBS check and completion of a Confidential Self-Declaration and safeguarding training. Full-board accommodation for the duration of the course, travel expenses (within the UK only) and an honorarium are included.