For talented young singers
Springhead Constellation founded by Sir John Eliot Gardiner, embodies a vibrant collective of musical ensembles, creative artists and makers committed to redefining 21st-century artistry and fostering interdisciplinary regeneration.
At the heart of our mission is the pursuit of excellence, supported by our ensembles which are made up of the finest international artists and performers (the ‘Constellation’), epitomising our dedication to showcasing exceptional talent.
Our flagship groups, The Constellation Orchestra and The Constellation Choir produce ambitious, multidisciplinary performance projects that tour around the world. By this means, we look to create accessible, engaging and educational performances that resonate across all generations and geographies.
Central to our programming is the annual Springhead Festival, complemented by a series of seminars, encounters and smaller-scale events that will serve and enrich our community’s cultural landscape, spaced out across the seasons. These activities, alongside digital offerings including podcasts and films, will delve into themes of regeneration, transformation, and the intersection between music and environmental stewardship.
Our flagship groups, The Constellation Orchestra and The Constellation Choir produce ambitious, multidisciplinary performance projects that tour around the world.
Central to our programming is the annual Springhead Festival, complemented by a series of seminars, encounters and smaller-scale events that will serve and enrich our community’s cultural landscape, spaced out across the seasons.
A five day residential workshop for ten to twelve exceptionally talented young singers who are on the point of completing their training at conservatories or universities prior to entering the music profession.
Springhead Constellation is proud to launch its inaugural apprentice scheme for young adult singers from 9 to 14 April 2025. This will take the form of a five day residential workshop for ten to twelve exceptionally talented young singers who are on the point of completing their training at conservatories or universities prior to entering the music profession. They will be invited to take part in an intensive programme of individual and group coaching and ensemble singing under the guidance of Sir John Eliot Gardiner, assisted by a small team of experienced professionals who will act as their mentors.
Participants will be encouraged to delve into a wide range of vocal styles beginning with folk-songs, partsongs and canons and branching out into polyphony as well as exercises in improvisation. Beyond technical and artistic development and the mastery of singing in different languages, the programme will emphasise the need for close collaboration and connection both within the ensemble, but also with the spirit of place (or genius loci) of Springhead itself, with its magical lakeside garden and the surrounding chalk hills of North Dorset.
The residency will provide opportunities for personal reflection and growth, as well as time for group discussions and mentoring sessions. This will be slanted towards fostering a broader understanding of their potential role as cultural ambassadors as well as preparing them to meet the varied challenges of the music profession, helping the apprentices to feel well prepared and equipped before taking the plunge.
Springhead has a long-standing tradition of connecting its educational and creative activities with the local community. Since this is in perfect alignment with Springhead Constellation’s mission, there will be opportunities for local music teachers who can apply to attend some of the rehearsals and to observe the progress made by the apprentices as they develop as a vocal ensemble during their residency.
The workshop will conclude with an informal concert given in Springhead’s atmospheric Millroom introduced by John Eliot Gardiner. The performance will not only showcase the apprentices’ artistic growth over the five days’ workshop, but provide an opportunity for members of the public and friends of the Springhead Trust to experience the results of this innovative apprentice scheme.
The constellation Choir & Orchestra
Sir John Eliot Gardiner conductor
Hilary Cronin, Alexander Chance, Thomas Hobbs, Florian Störtz soloists
programme i:
Cantatas for the Sunday “Jubilate”
JS Bach Weinen, Klagen, Sorgen, Zagen, BWV 12
JS Bach Ihr werdet weinen und heulen, BWV 103
JS Bach Wir müssen durch viel Trübsal, BWV 146
programme ii:
Cantatas for the 16th Sunday after Trinity Sunday
JS Bach Liebster Gott, wenn werd ich sterben, BWV 8
JS Bach Wer weiß, wie nahe mir mein Ende, BWV 27
JS Bach Christus, der ist mein Leben, BWV 95
JS Bach Komm, du süsse Todesstunde, BWV 161
Symposium and concert exploring the profound relationship between music and the land. Held at Springhead, the historic birthplace of Sir John Eliot Gardiner. A special concert will showcase music inspired by nature and locality, blending tradition and innovation.
The five-day Springhead Constellation event will feature a symposium and concert exploring the profound relationship between music and the land. The programme highlights themes of regeneration and transformation, with presentations and workshops by leading musicians, environmentalists, and creative thinkers. A special concert will showcase music inspired by nature and locality, blending tradition and innovation. Held at Springhead, the historic birthplace of Sir John Eliot Gardiner, this gathering will celebrate the connection between artistic creativity and environmental stewardship. The goal is to foster meaningful dialogue and inspire sustainable practices through cultural engagement and the arts.
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Two days to go until we launch The Constellation Orchestra and Constellation Choir. The atmosphere in the rehearsal room is absolutely electric! We can’t wait...
Orkest van de Achttiende Eeuw
Herengracht 62
1015 BP Amsterdam
info@springheadconstellation.com