Voice-Works Summer Study Weekend 2025: 8 French Greats

Voice-Works Summer Study Weekend 2025
10th–11th May
Location: Chandler's Ford, Hampshire, UK

Setting the scene

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw an extraordinary flowering of French vocal music, with composers navigating the shifting landscapes of Romanticism, Impressionism, and Modernism. Many of these figures crossed paths, influencing one another’s work, drawing inspiration from shared literary sources, and sometimes even studying under the same teachers. Their English contemporaries—Stanford, Elgar, Vaughan Williams, and others—were similarly engaged in defining a national identity in song, yet the French approach remained distinct in its sensuality, clarity of line, and connection to poetry.

During the study weekend, we will explore the music of 8 great French composers, carefully selected for their impact on both mélodie and opera. Fauré, Debussy, and Ravel each shaped the evolution of French art song, while contemporaries like Massenet and Poulenc moved effortlessly between lyrical song and operatic drama. Their works provide a rich tapestry of contrasting styles, allowing us to study the delicate balance between intimacy and grandeur, lyricism and declamation, refinement and theatricality.

Many of these composers shared artistic circles. Fauré taught Ravel at the Paris Conservatoire; Debussy and Ravel both admired and reacted against Wagnerian influence, developing their own uniquely French sound worlds. Poulenc, a later figure, was profoundly influenced by the literary and musical legacies of his predecessors, crafting songs that reflect both the wit and depth of French poetry. Understanding these connections adds another layer to our study—not only do we examine their music, but we also place it within a broader artistic and historical context.

The poetry behind the music

French composers have always been drawn to exceptional poetry, crafting songs and operas where text and music are inseparable. Fauré and Debussy found inspiration in the evocative language of Verlaine and Baudelaire, while Ravel’s and Poulenc’s works reveal the wit and depth of their literary counterparts. Massenet, Hahn, and Duparc each shaped French vocal music by setting texts that range from the exquisitely lyrical to the dramatically intense. Understanding these collaborations illuminates the unique marriage of words and music in mélodie and opera—something we’ll explore deeply during the weekend.

What to expect

“Two aspects of the study weekend were particularly wonderful for me: 1) the way Gillian very cleverly helped us acclimate ourselves to singing in a large hall and truly feel supported by the acoustics, and 2) the fact that Gillian herself participated in the event, choosing repertoire, learning, and singing it alongside us. This was super insightful and inspirational in terms of understanding what can be challenging about a piece and why. In addition to boosting the learning curve, the whole vibe of the event gave me a new level of courage as a singer.”
— Sophie, past participant

• Guided Repertoire Exploration – Each singer will choose up to four composers, working on a mix of art songs and opera arias to experience different stylistic and vocal demands.

• Masterclasses & Coaching – Supportive, practical sessions focusing on breath management, phrasing, diction, and interpretation, helping you to navigate shifts in style and technique.

• A Space for Experimentation – This is a chance to step outside your comfort zone, explore new repertoire, and develop insights into what suits your voice.

• Informal Sharing Session – A relaxed opportunity to sing through your repertoire, receive constructive feedback, and reflect on what you’ve discovered over the weekend.

• MP3 Backing Tracks – Each singer will work with high-quality MP3 backing tracks for their chosen repertoire.

• Teacher & Singer in Exploration – As with all my study weekends, I will also be studying and exploring this repertoire alongside you. This unique approach allows for shared discovery, offering insights into the practical challenges and artistic considerations of the pieces we work on together.

This process—of working through technical challenges, navigating difficult passages, and refining interpretation—can be transformative. As soprano Sue Lewey reflected after attending a recent study weekend:

“Watching Gillian not only lead but also participate gave me a rare insight into the learning process of a professional singer. We often assume that professionals navigate new repertoire effortlessly, but seeing Gillian work through technical challenges, analyze difficult passages, and confront insecurities—just as we do—was both eye-opening and reassuring.”

These weekends create a space where singers are encouraged to be bold in their repertoire choices, to take risks, and to push their artistry forward. The shared experience of learning—seeing the effort behind great singing—fosters confidence and insight that stays with you long after the weekend ends.

Who is This For?

This weekend is designed for advanced classical singers who enjoy a hands-on, exploratory approach to learning. Perhaps you're an experienced performer looking to refine your interpretation or returning to singing after a break, the focused, small-group setting (maximum six participants) provides the support and space needed to reconnect with your voice, refine your technique, and rediscover the joy of singing. This is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of repertoire, experiment with new styles, and gain confidence in your artistry, all within a welcoming and structured environment.

Curious but not ready to sing? You are warmly invited to come and observe. Experience the learning process firsthand, listen to the voices at work, and absorb the discussions—all at your own pace. Many singers find that observing helps them feel ready to take part in the future. There’s no rush, no pressure—just an open door to inspiration and discovery.

Application Details

• Application Deadline: Saturday, 5th April

• Maximum Participants: 6 singers (3 places left!)

• Location: Chandler's Ford, Hampshire, UK

If you’re eager to explore French vocal music in a supportive, hands-on setting, we’d love to have you. Spaces are limited, so early application is encouraged.

Full details are available via this link.

Gillian Wormley is a freelance soprano, recitalist, and vocal mentor dedicated to helping adult classical singers develop their voices with confidence and artistry. She studied at Dartington College of Arts before continuing her vocal development with leading tutors in the field. In 1988, she met her vocal coach, David Harper, whose influence continues to shape her teaching today.

Through The Voice School and Virtually Vocalise, Gillian creates a welcoming space where singers—whether returning after a break or refining their craft—can explore, learn, and grow. For her, singing is not just about technique; it’s about finding ease, expression, and a connection to music that lasts a lifetime.