Every year, Haddo House Choral and Operatic Society offer choral scholarships of up to £1000 to young singers in the North East of Scotland to support the development of their talent.

Our choral scholarships offer musical experience, training, and a chance to perform with professional musicians. Choral scholarships can also help young people develop their social and emotional skills.

Applications are now open for 2026/2027: Closing date is the 15th of March, 2026.

Who can apply?

Singers of 16 years and over, of all voice types are invited to apply. They should be proficient in reading music and have vocal qualities suitable for ensemble singing.

Expectations of applicants

Applicants will be expected to form a nucleus of proficient singers to enhance the choir of existing members. They will support the choir in learning new works and may be asked to perform solo/ensemble work.

Choral scholars will be expected to attend rehearsals regularly and to sing in all concerts.

Rehearsals

Rehearsals take place in a custom-made rehearsal room in the Peatyards at Haddo House, Methlick, Ellon, AB41 7EQ, every Thursday evening from 7:30 – 9:30 pm during school term times.

It is not possible to access Haddo House with public transport, but applicants could be given some help with transport if they can get as far as Ellon/Old Meldrum/Inverurie by bus.

Performances

At present the performance schedule for 2026-27 is:

An Autumn Concert: A selection of pieces from Oratorios and Operas that have been performed in the past by HHCOS to celebrate it’s 80th year, to be held on 26th September, 2026 in the Haddo House Hall

Christmas Carol Concert: in the Haddo Chapel and in the local community, in December, 2026.

A Spring Concert: 24th April, 2027, Haddo House Hall – TBC.

Additional information

It is understood that educational term breaks and other personal commitments may make attendance on occasions difficult. Paid leave would be reasonable – but this should be discussed and agreed with the Director of Music.

Scholarships are initially awarded for one year (April to April). The award will then be reviewed and may be extended.

Auditions for suitable applicants will take place in the Peatyards at Haddo on a Thursday evening during March.

To register an expression of interest or for further information, please contact: secretary@hhcos.org.uk