6.1 Do you provide accompanists?

Yes, we have a panel of experienced accompanists who are available to play for you at no extra cost. They are named in the syllabus for the relevant classes and sections that they will be playing for. You should indicate on your entry form in the relevant box if you would like the official accompanist to play for you.

Please note that an official accompanist will not be available for schools or adult choirs. In classes for adult choirs, the conductor is not considered to be a member of the choir and so may act as accompanist, but may not sing with the choir.

If you ask for the official accompanist, you must use him or her on the day and not turn up asking for your own teacher or accompanist to play for you. The official accompanist will have spent time preparing your music for you to provide the best support possible, and this needs to be respected. You also risk disqualification under the Festival rules.

See the instructions on the application form and on this page regarding advance submission of music for the accompanist's practice. You do not need to submit copies of set test pieces.

6.2 Can I bring my own accompanist?

Indeed you can. If you are playing a particularly difficult piece or programme you may find it reassuring to you to bring an accompanist with whom you have worked before, but do be sure that they will be available on the day and at the time of your class!

If you find that you have elected to bring your own accompanist with you, but then find at some stage between entry and competition day he or she cannot play for you, contact the Section Secretary immediately and they will consult with the official accompanist to see whether they will be able to play for you - do not leave it until you arrive as the accompanist may not know your piece sufficiently to support you, and a decision at that stage will be entirely at his or her discretion.

6.3 Can I rehearse with the official accompanist before my class?

This is possible, but you need to make separate arrangements directly with the accompanist and the Section Secretary for your section will give you their details. Although there is no fee for accompanying you on the day, you should expect that the accompanist might wish to negotiate a fee with you for additional rehearsal. If your music is challenging, additional rehearsal time may well be helpful to you – and to the accompanist!