SINGING
The next festival will be held on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May 2026
Please note our approach to what has been previously known as an 'Entry Fee'. These fees will now be known as a 'Registration Fee'. The Registration fee will be inclusive of all door money charges. There will be no money taken on the door, and each performer will be welcome to bring as many family members and supporters as they wish each time they play at no extra cost. The festival must still be self-funding: this explains the two levels of Registration Fee, which are broadly based on the time taken in performance by each performer.
Please enter the Singing section using the green button (below).
Entries will be accepted online via this website from 00:01 on Sunday 1 February 2026 until 23:59 on Sunday 15 March 2026
Click here to enter
The venue is Eltham College, Grove Park Rd, Mottingham, London SE9 4QF
Performers and listeners are all invited to Blackheath Music Festival free of charge
Performers gaining one of the four highest levels of achievement will be awarded a Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze Award. In total there will be seven categories of achievement, and all categories will be awarded certificates.
Platinum and Gold Award performers will be announced but not ranked. No 1st, 2nd or 3rd placings are awarded at Blackheath Music Festival. This is to encourage performers to continue to aspire to even higher achievements as they continue to learn.
Performers and listeners are all invited to Blackheath Music Festival free of charge
Performers gaining one of the four highest levels of achievement will be awarded a Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze Award. In total there will be seven categories of achievement, and all categories will be awarded certificates.
Platinum and Gold Award performers will be announced but not ranked. No 1st, 2nd or 3rd placings are awarded at Blackheath Music Festival. This is to encourage performers to continue to aspire to even higher achievements as they continue to learn.
Festival Dates: |
Saturday 9 May and Sunday 10 May 2026 |
Opening date for entry: Closing date for entry: |
Sunday 1 February 2026 at 00:01 Sunday 15 March 2026 at 23:59 (or earlier if class lists become full) |
Age qualification |
Age as at Friday 1 May 2026 |
Venue: |
Eltham College, Grove Park Rd, Mottingham, London SE9 4QF |
Adjudicator: |
Belinda Mikhail |
The Singing Secretary is: Hannah O'Hora |
Official Accompanist:
Andrew Tait
If you wish to use the services of Andrew Tait, please contact him on 07976 737519 or by email at [email protected]
Mr. Tait will accept an emailed copy of the accompaniment, but will not bring these accompaniments to the festival.
Performers MUST bring two copies to the festival in addition to their own copy; one for Mr. Tait, the other for the adjudicator. Both copies must be sellotaped together in a presentable and usable form.
His services are available on the day (without rehearsal) at a cost of £5.00 per performance. This fee will be payable at the door - cash only. Additionally, private rehearsals can be arranged by negotiation with Andrew Tait by using the above contact details.
Performance:
Performances can be given either from memory or from the score. It is the performer’s own choice. If the score is used, the music stand should be set a little to one side and used as an aide-memoire. Singers are invited to briefly introduce their performance.
Junior Singing Classes.
These classes will be held on Sunday 10 May 2026
Each performance will attract an Award level appropriate to the song without regard to the age of the performer.
Classical, Sacred or Folk Songs
Own choice of one solo song in any language. Performances in these classes MUST have live accompaniment. Please refer to classes 204 - 211 if you wish to sing in these or other vocal categories.
Class 200: School Years 1 - 3. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 3 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 201: School Years 4 - 6. To be held during the morning of Sunday 10 May 2026
Time limit 3 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 202: School Years 7 - 9. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 203: School Years 10 - 13. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Disney or other Animated Film Song
Own choice of one solo song from any Disney show or other animated Film. Actions are encouraged, but costumes and props are not permitted. Either live or recorded accompaniments are permitted in these classes. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any electronic assistance where electronic accompaniments are used. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any speakers or amplification for these classes.
Class 204: School Years 1 - 3. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 3 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 205: School Years 4 - 6. To be held during the morning of Sunday 10 May 2026
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 206: School Years 7 - 9. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Songs from Musicals, Stage Shows or Films
Own choice of one solo song from any Musical, Stage Show or Film EXCLUDING songs from classes 204 - 206. Actions are encouraged, but costumes and props are not permitted. Either live or recorded accompaniments are permitted in these classes. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any electronic assistance where electronic accompaniments are used. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any speakers or amplification for these classes.
Class 207: School Years up to and including Year 6. To be held during the morning of Sunday 10 May 2026
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 208: School Year 7 - 9. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 209: School Year 10 - 13. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Popular Songs
Own choice of any one song from any commercial genre. This can include Pop, Chart, R & B, Soul, Jazz or Swing. No props are permitted. ONLY pre-recorded or backing tracks can be used in these classes. Live accompaniment is NOT permitted. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any electronic assistance where electronic accompaniments are used. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any speakers or amplification for these classes
Class 210: School Years 7 - 9. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Class 211: School Years 10 - 13. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Junior vocal duet
Class 212: Junior vocal duet. 12 years & under. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Own choice of one duet from any genre. There must be a substantial element of vocal harmony within the duet - ie. at some point the two singers should be singing together, but singing different lines. Examples of repertoire could include 'The China Mandarin" (Bantock), 'Choosing Shoes (Easson), and Disney duet or anything similar.
This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Time limit 4 mins.
Class 213: Junior vocal duet. 18 years & under. (Singers of 16 years and over may also enter classes 227 & 228). To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. Own choice of one duet from any genre
There must be a substantial element of vocal harmony within the duet - ie. at some point the two singers should be singing together, but singing different lines. Examples of repertoire could include 'Greeting' (Mendelssohn), 'You're Just in Love (Berlin), 'I can show you the world (Aladdin) or anything similar.
This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Ivor Novello class
Class 214: Ivor Novello class - 18 years and under. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Any song by Ivor Novello. Time limit 4 minutes
Suggested sources: The Ivor Novello Song Album' (published by Faber), any Ivor Novello show score or any Ivor Novello song set by the examination boards. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
This class (and class 217) have been generously sponsored by Mr. James Hay, the grandson of Fannie Pearson, a good friend of Ivor Novello between 1909 - 1920. The Fannie Pearson Memorial Cup will be presented to the overall winner of this class and class 217 by Mr. James Hay.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Association of English Singers and Speakers
Class 215: Association of English Singers and Speakers - 13 to 18 years inclusive. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 10 mins
Performers should present two Art Songs in English (not opera or translations) plus a piece of poetry or prose and a spoken introduction. These items must be declared at the time of entry. A cup (returnable) and an award of £25.00 will be given to the overall winner of this and Class 216. This prize is endowed by the Association of English Singers and Speakers.
Entry £20.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Any school aged singer/song writer interested in composition should refer to the end of this page for the composition classes 130 & 131
ADULT SINGING CLASSES. Classes in the Adult Singing section will be held on either Saturday 9 May OR Sunday 10 May 2026.
Performers wishing to enter in three or more class from nos. 216 - 226 inclusive should inform the festival Treasurer at [email protected] once they have made and paid for all their entries. The festival will then be happy to set a financial cap at £48.00 (including the use of the Official Accompanist) for multiple entries from one singer. The £48.00 will then be deducted from the total entry fees paid by the same singer, and the singer will be reimbursed with the excess fees that have been paid.
Class 216: Association of English Singers and Speakers – 19 years and over To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026
Time limit - 10 mins
Performers should present two Art Songs in English (not opera or translations) plus a piece of poetry or prose and a spoken introduction. These items must be declared at the time of entry. A cup (returnable) and an award of £25.00 will be given to the overall winner of this and Class 215. This prize is endowed by the Association of English Singers and Speakers.
Entry £20.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 217: Ivor Novello class - 19 years and over To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026
Any song by Ivor Novello. Time limit 4 minutes. This class (and class 214) have been generously sponsored by Mr. James Hay, the grandson of Fannie Pearson, a good friend of Ivor Novello between 1909 - 1920. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
The Fannie Pearson Memorial Cup will be presented to the overall winner of this class and class 214 by Mr. James Hay.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 218: English language composers – 18 years and over
Time limit 4 mins
Own choice of one song by any composer in the English language not including translation (excluding opera, sacred music and musicals). This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 219: A French or German Art Song – 18 years and over
Time limit - 4 mins
Own choice of one song. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 220: A song in any living language other than English, French or German – 18 years and over
Time limit - 4 mins
Own choice of one song (excluding opera, oratorio and musicals). This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 221: Sacred Music - 18 years and over
Time limit - 6 mins
Own choice of one sacred song (this can include arias from oratorios, masses etc). This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 222: Opera - 18 years and over
Time limit - 6 mins
Own choice of one aria, with or without recitative from any opera. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 223: Humorous Song (including cabaret or music hall) - 18 years and over
Time limit - 4 mins
Any song with a humorous feel. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 224: Songs from the Shows - 18 years and over
Time limit - 5 mins
Own choice of one song from any show, musical or film. No costume allowed. The emphasis will be on the quality of the performance. Please name the show, musical or film on the entry form. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry 16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 225: Recital - 18 year and over
Time limit - 12 mins
Own choice of THREE songs, (not opera, oratorio or musicals). Songs should be contrasted in style and period and may include one unaccompanied song. The programme should not include any song sung elsewhere in this year’s festival. These songs must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £20.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 226: For singers aged 70 years or over
Time limit - 4 mins
Own choice of one song. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 227: Classical Duet, Trio, Quartet, Quintet - 16 years & over
Time limit - 5 mins
Operatic items can be included in this class. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 228: Show/film Duet, Trio, Quartet, Quintet - 16 years and over
Time limit - 5 mins
Own choice of one ensemble from any show, musical or film. No costume allowed. The emphasis will be on the quality of the performance. Please name the show, musical or film on the entry form. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 229: Ensembles - Open, any age. 6 to 20 singers
Time limit - 8 mins
This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
OTHER CLASSES FOR SINGERS
Class 128: Family Ensembles, any instruments/voice, any number of players, any age.
This class will be on Sunday 10 May and will be heard by the piano adjudicator
No minimum time limit, one, two or three pieces up to a 6 minutes maximum time limit
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware of the new Entry fee/Registration system now in place). The piece(s) is to be declared at the time of entry.
TWO INSTRUMENT/VOICE CLASSES
Performers should present one instrument from any two of the following categories – piano, strings (including guitar), brass, wind or singing – i.e. combinations such as singing & recorder, piano & trumpet, flute & trombone – but not two instruments within a category. Performers need to provide their own accompanist (if being used). Instruments/voices and pieces are to be declared at the time of entry. These two classes will be heard by the piano adjudicator.
Class 129: Two instruments, 12 & under, 1 piece on each instrument/voice.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Total performance time 6 minutes (including change of instrument)
Class 130: Two instruments, 13 & over, 1 piece on each instrument/voice.
Entry £18.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Total performance time 8 minutes (including change of instrument)
OWN COMPOSITION CLASSES
Class 131: Own composition. 11 years & under. The following class will be adjudicated by the piano adjudicator
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Time limit 3 mins
Class 132: Own composition. 12 years & over. The following class will be adjudicated by the piano adjudicator
Entry £16.00. (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Time limit 3 mins
Andrew Tait
If you wish to use the services of Andrew Tait, please contact him on 07976 737519 or by email at [email protected]
Mr. Tait will accept an emailed copy of the accompaniment, but will not bring these accompaniments to the festival.
Performers MUST bring two copies to the festival in addition to their own copy; one for Mr. Tait, the other for the adjudicator. Both copies must be sellotaped together in a presentable and usable form.
His services are available on the day (without rehearsal) at a cost of £5.00 per performance. This fee will be payable at the door - cash only. Additionally, private rehearsals can be arranged by negotiation with Andrew Tait by using the above contact details.
Performance:
Performances can be given either from memory or from the score. It is the performer’s own choice. If the score is used, the music stand should be set a little to one side and used as an aide-memoire. Singers are invited to briefly introduce their performance.
Junior Singing Classes.
These classes will be held on Sunday 10 May 2026
Each performance will attract an Award level appropriate to the song without regard to the age of the performer.
Classical, Sacred or Folk Songs
Own choice of one solo song in any language. Performances in these classes MUST have live accompaniment. Please refer to classes 204 - 211 if you wish to sing in these or other vocal categories.
Class 200: School Years 1 - 3. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 3 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 201: School Years 4 - 6. To be held during the morning of Sunday 10 May 2026
Time limit 3 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 202: School Years 7 - 9. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 203: School Years 10 - 13. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Disney or other Animated Film Song
Own choice of one solo song from any Disney show or other animated Film. Actions are encouraged, but costumes and props are not permitted. Either live or recorded accompaniments are permitted in these classes. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any electronic assistance where electronic accompaniments are used. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any speakers or amplification for these classes.
Class 204: School Years 1 - 3. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 3 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 205: School Years 4 - 6. To be held during the morning of Sunday 10 May 2026
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 206: School Years 7 - 9. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Songs from Musicals, Stage Shows or Films
Own choice of one solo song from any Musical, Stage Show or Film EXCLUDING songs from classes 204 - 206. Actions are encouraged, but costumes and props are not permitted. Either live or recorded accompaniments are permitted in these classes. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any electronic assistance where electronic accompaniments are used. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any speakers or amplification for these classes.
Class 207: School Years up to and including Year 6. To be held during the morning of Sunday 10 May 2026
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 208: School Year 7 - 9. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 209: School Year 10 - 13. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Popular Songs
Own choice of any one song from any commercial genre. This can include Pop, Chart, R & B, Soul, Jazz or Swing. No props are permitted. ONLY pre-recorded or backing tracks can be used in these classes. Live accompaniment is NOT permitted. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any electronic assistance where electronic accompaniments are used. Blackheath Music Festival will NOT provide any speakers or amplification for these classes
Class 210: School Years 7 - 9. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Class 211: School Years 10 - 13. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Junior vocal duet
Class 212: Junior vocal duet. 12 years & under. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Own choice of one duet from any genre. There must be a substantial element of vocal harmony within the duet - ie. at some point the two singers should be singing together, but singing different lines. Examples of repertoire could include 'The China Mandarin" (Bantock), 'Choosing Shoes (Easson), and Disney duet or anything similar.
This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Time limit 4 mins.
Class 213: Junior vocal duet. 18 years & under. (Singers of 16 years and over may also enter classes 227 & 228). To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 4 mins. Own choice of one duet from any genre
There must be a substantial element of vocal harmony within the duet - ie. at some point the two singers should be singing together, but singing different lines. Examples of repertoire could include 'Greeting' (Mendelssohn), 'You're Just in Love (Berlin), 'I can show you the world (Aladdin) or anything similar.
This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Ivor Novello class
Class 214: Ivor Novello class - 18 years and under. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Any song by Ivor Novello. Time limit 4 minutes
Suggested sources: The Ivor Novello Song Album' (published by Faber), any Ivor Novello show score or any Ivor Novello song set by the examination boards. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
This class (and class 217) have been generously sponsored by Mr. James Hay, the grandson of Fannie Pearson, a good friend of Ivor Novello between 1909 - 1920. The Fannie Pearson Memorial Cup will be presented to the overall winner of this class and class 217 by Mr. James Hay.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Association of English Singers and Speakers
Class 215: Association of English Singers and Speakers - 13 to 18 years inclusive. To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at a time to be advised.
Time limit 10 mins
Performers should present two Art Songs in English (not opera or translations) plus a piece of poetry or prose and a spoken introduction. These items must be declared at the time of entry. A cup (returnable) and an award of £25.00 will be given to the overall winner of this and Class 216. This prize is endowed by the Association of English Singers and Speakers.
Entry £20.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Any school aged singer/song writer interested in composition should refer to the end of this page for the composition classes 130 & 131
ADULT SINGING CLASSES. Classes in the Adult Singing section will be held on either Saturday 9 May OR Sunday 10 May 2026.
Performers wishing to enter in three or more class from nos. 216 - 226 inclusive should inform the festival Treasurer at [email protected] once they have made and paid for all their entries. The festival will then be happy to set a financial cap at £48.00 (including the use of the Official Accompanist) for multiple entries from one singer. The £48.00 will then be deducted from the total entry fees paid by the same singer, and the singer will be reimbursed with the excess fees that have been paid.
Class 216: Association of English Singers and Speakers – 19 years and over To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026
Time limit - 10 mins
Performers should present two Art Songs in English (not opera or translations) plus a piece of poetry or prose and a spoken introduction. These items must be declared at the time of entry. A cup (returnable) and an award of £25.00 will be given to the overall winner of this and Class 215. This prize is endowed by the Association of English Singers and Speakers.
Entry £20.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 217: Ivor Novello class - 19 years and over To be held on Sunday 10 May 2026
Any song by Ivor Novello. Time limit 4 minutes. This class (and class 214) have been generously sponsored by Mr. James Hay, the grandson of Fannie Pearson, a good friend of Ivor Novello between 1909 - 1920. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
The Fannie Pearson Memorial Cup will be presented to the overall winner of this class and class 214 by Mr. James Hay.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 218: English language composers – 18 years and over
Time limit 4 mins
Own choice of one song by any composer in the English language not including translation (excluding opera, sacred music and musicals). This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 219: A French or German Art Song – 18 years and over
Time limit - 4 mins
Own choice of one song. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 220: A song in any living language other than English, French or German – 18 years and over
Time limit - 4 mins
Own choice of one song (excluding opera, oratorio and musicals). This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 221: Sacred Music - 18 years and over
Time limit - 6 mins
Own choice of one sacred song (this can include arias from oratorios, masses etc). This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 222: Opera - 18 years and over
Time limit - 6 mins
Own choice of one aria, with or without recitative from any opera. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 223: Humorous Song (including cabaret or music hall) - 18 years and over
Time limit - 4 mins
Any song with a humorous feel. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 224: Songs from the Shows - 18 years and over
Time limit - 5 mins
Own choice of one song from any show, musical or film. No costume allowed. The emphasis will be on the quality of the performance. Please name the show, musical or film on the entry form. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry 16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 225: Recital - 18 year and over
Time limit - 12 mins
Own choice of THREE songs, (not opera, oratorio or musicals). Songs should be contrasted in style and period and may include one unaccompanied song. The programme should not include any song sung elsewhere in this year’s festival. These songs must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £20.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 226: For singers aged 70 years or over
Time limit - 4 mins
Own choice of one song. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 227: Classical Duet, Trio, Quartet, Quintet - 16 years & over
Time limit - 5 mins
Operatic items can be included in this class. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 228: Show/film Duet, Trio, Quartet, Quintet - 16 years and over
Time limit - 5 mins
Own choice of one ensemble from any show, musical or film. No costume allowed. The emphasis will be on the quality of the performance. Please name the show, musical or film on the entry form. This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
Class 229: Ensembles - Open, any age. 6 to 20 singers
Time limit - 8 mins
This song must be declared at the time of entry.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Official accompanist (optional) £5.00
OTHER CLASSES FOR SINGERS
- Please note the following five classes (128, 129, 130, 131 & 132) will be held within the piano section and will be heard by the piano adjudicator.
- All entries for these classes should be made online by going to the Piano Syllabus section of the online entry form in order to find the correct class number.
- Entries for this class cannot be made by selecting the Singing Syllabus section of the online entry form.
Class 128: Family Ensembles, any instruments/voice, any number of players, any age.
This class will be on Sunday 10 May and will be heard by the piano adjudicator
No minimum time limit, one, two or three pieces up to a 6 minutes maximum time limit
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware of the new Entry fee/Registration system now in place). The piece(s) is to be declared at the time of entry.
TWO INSTRUMENT/VOICE CLASSES
Performers should present one instrument from any two of the following categories – piano, strings (including guitar), brass, wind or singing – i.e. combinations such as singing & recorder, piano & trumpet, flute & trombone – but not two instruments within a category. Performers need to provide their own accompanist (if being used). Instruments/voices and pieces are to be declared at the time of entry. These two classes will be heard by the piano adjudicator.
Class 129: Two instruments, 12 & under, 1 piece on each instrument/voice.
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Total performance time 6 minutes (including change of instrument)
Class 130: Two instruments, 13 & over, 1 piece on each instrument/voice.
Entry £18.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Total performance time 8 minutes (including change of instrument)
OWN COMPOSITION CLASSES
- Please note the following two classes will be held within the piano section and will be heard by the piano adjudicator.
- All entries for this class should be made online by going to the Piano Syllabus section of the online entry form in order to find the correct class number.
- Entries for these two classes cannot be made via the Singing Syllabus section of the online entry form.
Class 131: Own composition. 11 years & under. The following class will be adjudicated by the piano adjudicator
Entry £16.00 (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Time limit 3 mins
- The composition can be for any group from 1 - 4 players, singers or a mixture of both, and can be a free or fixed-form composition. The composer must be one of the performers
- The composition must be written down and a copy provided for the adjudicator.
- A paper copy of the composition must be submitted to the Piano Secretary by Thursday 1 May 2025 so that it can be sent to the adjudicator for pre-festival assessment
- All performers must perform ‘live’ on the day - no pre-recorded parts
- Only the composition (not the performance) will be adjudicated
Class 132: Own composition. 12 years & over. The following class will be adjudicated by the piano adjudicator
Entry £16.00. (Please be aware this entry fee includes a free programme for the performer, plus free entry to the venue for both the performer and supporters)
Time limit 3 mins
- The composition can be for any group from 1 - 4 players, singers or a mixture of both, and can be a free or fixed-form composition. The composer must be one of the performers
- The composition must be written down and a copy provided for the adjudicator.
- A paper copy of the composition must be submitted to the Piano Secretary by Thursday 1 May 2025 so that it can be sent to the adjudicator for pre-festival assessment
- All performers must perform ‘live’ on the day - no pre-recorded parts
- Only the composition (not the performance) will be adjudicated
