A SINGING sensation schooled in Wem and Whitchurch is set for a huge opportunity after being awarded a place to study in Paris.

Holly Teague, who attended both Sir John Talbot’s in Whitchurch and Thomas Adams in Wem, will study at the Conservatoire de Paris, one of the oldest schools in France after it was created in 1795.

But while Holly, 23, is well supported in many ways with her training, as well as the opportunities she has created for herself, she is looking for any help that the people of both towns can give, so she can fully embrace the challenge given to her in France’s capital.

And while she is searching for funds to help, she admitted that earning the only soprano place on offer at the Conservatoire is huge recognition for all her hard work.

“Being awarded a place to study at Conservatoire de Paris is such a fantastic opportunity for me, musically, professionally and personally,” said Holly, who has just completed her second year as a student at the Royal Conservatoire of Music in Birmingham.

“All students at RBC are encouraged to apply for an Erasmus place at any participating music college across Europe, but some, such as the Conservatoire de Lyon. are more prestigious, and require an audition.

“I sent over a full length recital recording, plus my CV and a covering letter explaining why I thought Paris was the place for me, then waited four months for a response.

“French Song repertoire is some of the most difficult to sing, but the most beautiful and rewarding music also, and the teaching and coaching at Paris is world class.

“However, the institution typically only offers one UK position each year, so I really had everything crossed.

“Although the cost of study is funded by my student loan, rent and living costs are not, plus I intend to make the most of every available artistic opportunity while I’m there, and fully immerse myself in “La Vie Parisienne.

“In total, I hope to save £3,500 before I leave, through my own work and the kind contributions of various trusts and individuals.

“Some of the recital repertoire with which I auditioned is included in the programme that I have planned at an informal afternoon concert on Saturday, September 8 at Wem Baptist Church.

“Admission to the concert is free, but retiring donations are always greatly appreciated.”

Holly’s enthusiasm and dedication to music has encouraged her to explore a vast range of repertoire and gifted her ample performance experience already as a

result.

At the end of her second year, competition highlights include finalist in the Cecil Drew Oratorio Prize, finalist in the Stuart Cameron-Smith American Song Prize, finalist in the Winifred Michlam Prize and finalist in the Junior Kathleen Ferrier Bursary Award (inter-college competition).

In addition to departmental vocal engagements, recent public recital repertoire includes Shubert’s Die Hirt auf dem Felsen, Shumann’s Frauenliebe und Leben and Barber’s Hermit Songs.

Opera roles so far include Jenny Diver in The Beggar’s Opera; Countess Almaviva in Le Nozze di Figaro, and Michaela in Carmen.

Holly’s route into music was as a player rather than a singer, educated in both the piano and violin before taking a break from playing to reasses her relationship with music.

She will be performing between 3pm and 4pm on Saturday, September 8 at Wem Baptist Church, and also has plans to release an album once she returns from Paris with long-time collaborator and lutanist/theorbo player Myles Payne in 2019.

To learn more about Holly and her career, to donate to her Paris funds, or approach Holly about performing opportunities you can head to www.hollyteague.com or email holly.teague@live.com