Secondary Vocal Festival
March & July 2023
We are excited to present our first Secondary Vocal Festival.
Our 2023 Secondary Music Festival is underway with inspiring workshop leader Emily Barden. Key Stage 3 and 4 students are joining together for an amazing day of singing and using the voice as a composing instrument, exploring building vocal loops with technology.
Dates and Venues:
Keswick, Pencil Factory, 28th March 23
Ulverston, Methodist church, 29th March 23
Egremont, Meeting Place, 30th March 23
Barrow-in Furness, St Matthews Church Hall, 5th July 23
Kendal, Public rooms, 6th July 23
Carlisle, St John The Evangelist, 7th July 23
Led by Emily Barden, songwriter, choral director and workshop leader, the workshops will focus on A Cappella (like Pitch Perfect!) singing and building vocal loops. There will also be opportunities to work with a looping station and hone microphone technique.
Nervous singers will be wholly supported and teachers will gain skills in working with singers. Additionally there are online follow-up sessions with Emily for those who continue to work on creating a looped ensemble piece.
There are numerous dates and venues around the county for you to choose from and join us for this fantastic opportunity:

We will provide children and schools with:
- a safe environment for students to sing together
- an opportunity to perform to a wider audience
- the experience of singing in ensembles with other young singers around the county
- an opportunity to work with professional singers and composers
How will it work on the day?
- A full day workshop during the school day from 9:30 to 3:30 (Please let us know if you need to leave earlier for transport home)
- Whole group activities
- Break away groups to work on vocal loops and music tech
- Additional activities based on the theme, led by us, will be rehearsed on the day
What does the cost include?
The cost is £100 per group of 35
(Please contact Kaytie if more or fewer numbers)
- An online Teachers’ Workshop, on 16th February at 4:00pm to give information and details of any preparation
- Resources Support before the event, if required, to prepare for the workshop.
- Top class vocal tuition and composition from professional vocal musicians and leaders
Our Secondary Vocal festival will also:
- increase pupils’ performance skills
- boost confidence
- create links between singers in your area
- support GCSE ensemble training
- encourage students to work as a team
Secondary Vocal Festival Evaluation
Event Evaluation form for participants.
Secondary Vocal Festival Sign Up
Cost: £100 per group of up to 35. If you have a larger group we will contact you to discuss options. Cancellations: 4 – 8 weeks before the event 50% of the fee will be charged; up to 4 weeks before the event the full fee will be charged