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Great choir conductors aren't born,

they're forged.

Join our 30-week mentoring & training programme for choir conductors, rooted in reflection, artistic growth, and shared learning.

Explore the course

News.

Michael Joseph Barrett joins Forge as May course mentor.

We’re delighted to welcome Dr Michael Joseph Barrett from South Africa to Forge as a mentor on our May course. An internationally respected choral conductor and educator, Michael is renowned for his work with leading youth and university choirs, as well as for his expertise in choral pedagogy and ensemble development. As conductor of the University of Pretoria Camerata, he has led award-winning performances on the global stage, and he is in demand worldwide as a guest conductor and clinician. Michael brings a wealth of experience in developing young singers, shaping choral sound, and championing diverse repertoire. We’re thrilled that our May course participants will have the opportunity to learn from his insight, energy, and world-class musicianship.

 “I am thrilled to join Forge in helping to shape the future of choral conducting on a global platform. The more people we have championing choral music education in classrooms and concert halls, the better the world becomes… and we need this now more than ever.”

Meet Cohort 1.

Our inaugural cohort of conductors begins their Forge journey in January. Explore the map and click on the icons to meet the musicians forging connections and developing their craft across the world.

Meet your mentors.

Your mentors are experienced conductors from around the world, bringing practical insight and expertise to every session. They’re ready to share what they’ve learned, help you grow, and work alongside you every step of your Forge experience. Click for their biographies.

"I am delighted to support this imaginative and practical way of teaching conductors and of building support networks within our beloved choral world. It’s an affordable new way of learning from a world-class array of teachers with varying backgrounds and experiences."

Simon Halsey

Chorus Director Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, Professor Emeritus University of Birmingham, Emeritus Director London Symphony Orchestra, Director CBSO Chorus

 

Meet the Founders. 

Although coming from different musical beginnings, Greg and Tori were drawn to the same challenge - building a more collegial, rigorous, and globally connected way for conductors to grow.

"We want to empower future generations of choral conductors to bring excellence, empathy, and creativity into every rehearsal and every performance."

 

 

"This new venture by two such thoughtful, caring and impassioned choral crusaders - Tori Longdon and Greg Beardsell - is sure to be a huge boost to so many people. Greg and Tori have each achieved so much in choral music-making, and done so with such insight, generosity and warmth: anyone looking to build their skills and confidence in choral conducting stands to gain so much for their positive guidance and encouragement."

James Murphy

Chief Executive Royal Philharmonic Society

The Guest Room.

Alongside your mentors, you’ll meet guest experts who bring fresh perspectives and specialist knowledge to enrich your learning.

Want to know more?

What is the Forge course?

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Who is Forge for?

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