Jersey Vocal Trust

In 1998 arrangements began for highly experienced teachers to occasionally visit the island for short periods, in recognition that there were insufficient singing teachers in Jersey to meet demand. This saved the cost of students travelling to England for lessons. The visiting teachers also trained some local singers to be able to teach other singers to enhance the local provision. However, the increasing demand for tuition has meant visiting teachers are still required. The Trust engages the services of highly trained singing teachers, both locally and internationally, to provide guidance, support and professional programmes of vocal development for local singers from all vocal levels and genres. The leading visiting teacher is Miss Jane Highfield who had a noted career in singing and has subsequently taught as a Professor of Singing at many conservatoires and universities including the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Royal Academy of Music. Miss Highfield’s considerable experience and skill has greatly contributed to the development of the Trust and singing in the island over the last 20 years. Other teachers visiting the island and making important contributions include Miss Jan Spooner Swaby, Mrs Rachel Bowen-Perkins and Mr Ian Kennedy. Several Workshops have been organised covering an ever widening perspective, including Jazz and Gospel singing and training in musical direction.