VOCES8 US Scholars 2024-25

2017 saw the launch of the US Scholars Program: a training opportunity for twelve talented singers who have a particular interest in choral and small ensemble singing. With tutoring from Paul Smith, Erik Jacobson and VOCES8, the Scholars gain experience in performing, recording and workshop leading, with opportunities to sing alongside VOCES8.

The Scholars are also invited to observe and participate in our innovative education programmes and learn to use the unique teaching tool that is The VOCES8 Method.

If you're viewing this website on a phone or tablet, please click the white dot in the bottom right-hand corner of the photo pages to view the Scholars' biographies.

Highlights of each season include:

  • An introductory week of rehearsals and workshops, led by VOCES8 founding-member Paul Smith and Lyyra Creative Director Erik Jacobson

  • Scholar-only recording session at MPR Studios in Minneapolis/St Paul

  • Coaching and performing opportunities with VOCES8 during their February/March US tour

  • Opportunities to observe and participate in the VOCES8 Foundation’s learning and participation programs across the US

Last year’s 2022-23 US Scholar Season began in September with a week in Plano, rehearsing and developing their ensemble skills and doing workshops with four area high schools. This was followed by five days in November working with Paul Smith and Erik Jacobson, recording and making music videos in partnership with MPR Studios. The Scholars also had the opportunity to work with local composers and area schools. Later in the year, the Scholars worked with VOCES8 in Stanford, CA, to prepare a joint performance of Christopher Tin's The Lost Birds.

You can learn about The Lost Birds collaboration in the video below and find the 2022-23 US Scholars’ performance of the ‘Sussex Carol’ at the bottom of the page.

The VOCES8 US Scholars Program is led by Paul Smith (paul@voces8.foundation), the CEO of the VOCES8 Foundation and former baritone in VOCES8, and Erik Jacobson (erik@voces8.foundation), Managing Director of The VOCES8 Foundation USA and Lyyra Creative Director.  

Applicants must be 21 years of age or above as of September 2025. There is deliberately no set upper age limit to the program, as we recognise that different singers develop at different times. The program is fully-funded for all travel and accommodation within the US. You do not have to be resident in the US to apply for the US program, but we cannot guarantee to cover the cost of international flights. 

Applications for the 2025-26 VOCES8 US Scholars Program are now open. Click the link below to find out how to apply.