Opera singer crowdfunds £50k to support state-educated talent at Guildhall
Guildhall School of Music and Drama has launched a £50,000 scholarship to support state school-educated singers, crowdfunded by alumnus Nicky Spence.
The Nicky Spence Scholarship for Vocal Studies will be offered to singers who have been educated at a UK state school and would not otherwise have the financial means to accept an offer to study at Guildhall.
Spence, who sought funding from donors for the scheme, said: “I am really happy that my involvement in the school will give a talented group of singers from a lower socio-economic background the opportunity to flourish in the environment that Guildhall creates so uniquely.
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“My own upbringing never foretold success and I would really like to help establish more state school representation on our stages.”
Caroline Hawley, head of development at Guildhall School, said: “Having been made a fellow last year, Nicky identified a pressing need to support the next generation of emerging vocal talent, and collaborated with the school to lead this major fundraising effort with his characteristic warmth and energy.
“The scholarship, which bears Nicky’s name, is a powerful example of what can happen when generosity meets inspired leadership.”
The first Nicky Spence scholar is due to begin their studies in September 2025.
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