PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
RNCM Soprano Wins
Patricia Routledge National English Song Competition
Canadian soprano Sarah Parkin was awarded First Prize in the AESS Patricia Routledge National English Song Competition.
The annual contest, which took place at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama on Friday 10 May, was established to ‘encourage the communication of English words, in singing and in speech, with clarity, understanding and imagination.’
Sarah, aged 25, is currently studying for a Postgraduate Diploma at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) with Susan Roper after graduating with a Master’s in Solo Performance last year. She was accompanied on the evening by RNCM postgraduate pianist James Vaughan.
On winning the competition, she said: 'I am so honoured to have been presented with the First Prize in this prestigious competition, as well as being given the chance to represent the RNCM in such a positive manner.The finalists were all fantastic artists, and I can easily say it was a most enjoyable experience - not to mention the opportunity of meeting Patricia Routledge herself! Many thanks to the support of the staff at the RNCM, and especially to my fantastic accompanist, James Vaughan.'
Acknowledging her success, Susan, Deputy Head of the School of Vocal Studies and Opera at the RNCM, added: ‘We are absolutely delighted by Sarah’s success; she is a hugely talented student and has worked very hard during her time at the RNCM. We are very proud of her and happy for her.’
For more information please contact Liz Rowley, PR and Media Relations Office, on 0161 907 5369 or email
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Notes to Editors:
· The AESS stands for the Association of English Singers and Speakers. It was formed in 1913 by the leading laryngologist of his time, Dr W A Aikin, to further study the scientific principles of phonology as expounded in his book, The Voice. This was an all-male society of well-known singers and teachers who met at regular intervals to dine and discuss questions of vocal and professional interest. Two of the original members were Harry Plunket Greene, a singer famed for his English oratorio interpretations, and William Shakespeare, a leading singing teacher at the Royal Academy of Music.
· The purpose of the Patricia Routledge National English Song Competition, in accordance with the aims of the AESS, is ‘to encourage the communication of English words, in singing and in speech, with clarity, understanding and imagination.’
· Competitors are asked to present and sing a themed recital of 'Art' songs with original English texts. The integrated programme may include spoken links and should contain at least one piece of poetry or prose. It should not exceed 20 minutes in total.
· Four prizes are awarded in total: First Prize - £2,000; Second Prize - £1,000, Third Prize - £1,000; Accompanist’s Prize - £1,000.
· More information about the competition can be found at http://www.aofess.org.uk
Picture Captions:
1. Sarah Parkin, James Vaughan and Patricia Routledge
2. Sarah Parkin and Patricia Routledge