We only accept applications via our online portal. For each course, you need to provide up to three links to video or audio recordings of you that show your current level of expertise. We also ask all applicants for a short “about me” video to help us get to know you, why you’re applying and to learn about how this opportunity will help you. The Britten Pears Young Artist Programme is an artist development programme, it is important for us to hear how this opportunity will help your journey, growth and development. Please find application requirements for each 2025-26 course below.

As our courses require tailored applications, you are only able to apply for one course at a time. If you wish to submit applications for more than one course, you will need to submit one application before starting the next.

At BPA, we strongly believe in equal opportunities for all and understand that diversity strengthens and enriches us as an organisation. We take pride in the BPYAP being an accessible programme, and positively encourage applications from early career artists of all backgrounds, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, neurodivergence, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status.

All applications are reviewed by our rotating panel of internationally recognised artists, staff at Britten Pears Arts and individuals from other partner organisations. A full list of reviewers and information about the reviewing process can be found here.

The application period is open from 13 January - 17 February 2025 (1pm UK time GMT). Extensions may be given on a case-by-case basis, providing we receive notice of at least 72 hours before the deadline. There are no application fees.

We will provide results to all applicants by 3pm on 15 April 2025.

All successful and reserve applicants will receive written feedback on their application to aid in preparation for their prospective or potential place on a course. Unsuccessful applicants can receive feedback upon request. Feedback will be sent before the 27 May 2025.

Application Guidelines

To be considered, please fill in all sections of the application form and submit the following where prompted to do so:

· A scan of your passport (or another form of ID)

· Your biography or CV

· Up to three video/audio recordings showing your work (performers must include at least one video recording. Composers may submit only audio recordings or a mixture of both). These recordings may be taken on a smartphone, and do not need to be of professional quality. Please make sure that your recordings are relevant to the course you are applying to, considering the further details below.

· An 'about me' video: One video, up to 3 minutes, of you talking to camera. This is a chance for us to get to know you and what’s important to you as an artist. You should talk about why you’re interested in the course and how you think it would help with your development as an artist.

Building a Recital Programme Submit up to three recordings (video/audio as stated above) to display your experience and interests in art song. As this course is about combining different repertoire in interesting ways to form a programme, singers should show their skills in three different languages of their choice.

Composition, Alternative Performance and Performance Art Submit up to three recordings (audio and/or video as stated above) that reflect what you’re doing as an artist at the moment. This may include uploading scores to support your application where appropriate. These should demonstrate your technical qualities and your interest in contemporary music-making (whether contemporary classical music, experimental music, improvisation or cross-genres).

Chamber Music in Residence Submit up to three recordings (video/audio as stated above) performed by your ensemble. Showcase the repertoire that interests you as an ensemble and shows the direction you would like to go in, whilst allowing us to assess your playing as an ensemble.

If you have any further questions about your application or the programme in general, please email us bpyap[at]brittenpearsarts[dot]org.

Drop-In Sessions

If you would prefer to discuss your application via video call, you can book a 15-minute drop-in session. These will run every week but are limited, so we won’t be able to offer sessions to all applicants.

If you’d like us to provide a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter or have any other access requirements, please let us know in the relevant section of the form.

Click here to book a slot.

Sessions will be offered within the below time slots (UK Time):

Wednesday 15 January 15:30 – 17:30

Friday 17 January 10:00 – 12:00

Thursday 23 January 11:00 – 13:00

Monday 27 January 14:00 – 16:00

Thursday 30 January 11:00 – 13:00

Tuesday 4 February 10:00 – 12:00

Monday 10 February 11:00 – 13:00

Tuesday 11 February 15:00 – 17:00