As part of our 30th anniversary celebrations, we are delighted that Samling Artists soprano Louise Alder and pianist James Baillieu have accepted an invitation to become Patrons of Samling Institute.
In their artistry, their international achievements and their commitment to supporting the next generations, Louise and James are shining examples of the qualities that Samling stands for and that we seek to nurture in younger artists. I am extremely grateful that they have agreed to find time in their busy careers to take on this new role representing Samling Institute and advocating for our work.
Sir David Bell KCB DL,
Chair of Samling Institute
Louise Alder
Louise Alder is enjoying a stellar opera career – the past year has included her house debut at the New York Metropolitan Opera; a highly praised role debut as Countess Le nozze di Figaro at Glyndebourne and headlining the Last Night of the Proms. Her latest disc is a recording of Strauss songs with Nicholas Collon and the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra.
‘I’ve always been so grateful for my time at Samling and I still draw on what I learned when I sing. As a patron, I am so excited to advocate for Samling and celebrate the opportunities it presents for young singers to learn important tools in an intimate setting, alongside important showcases, quite different from music college. In a fast-changing musical world that presents an increasingly difficult landscape for young artists, it is vital they continue to benefit in the way I did.’
James Baillieu
James Baillieu is one of the leading song and chamber pianists of his generation and he also shares Samling’s commitment to supporting the next generation, returning to us regularly to lead both of our core programmes. He is Associate Director of the Britten Pears Young Artist Programme, senior professor at the Royal Academy of Music and Head of Song at the Verbier Festival Atelier Lyrique.
‘Samling’s commitment to artistic excellence and to nurturing the next generation of singers and ensemble pianists is something I have long admired and the fact that all of this is achieved without public funding is truly remarkable. It has been a real pleasure to be involved with the Academy and the Artist Programme and I am genuinely delighted and honoured to be supporting Samling’s work further as a Patron.’
