BBC Radio 3, NCEM and the RCM are delighted to announce a development workshop day to be held at the Royal College of Music on Sunday 11 January 2026 from 10.00-17.00.
The day (hosted at the Royal College of Music) offers emerging professional ensembles the opportunity to be coached by RCM’s Head of Historical Performance Professor Ashley Solomon, and to find out more about the NGBE scheme with representatives of the partner organisations.
Applications are open to UK-based primarily instrumental baroque ensembles of between 3 and 6 players. You will be experienced performing repertoire between 1600-1800 using historically informed playing techniques, instruments, and stylistic conventions.
Please note that places are limited due to the timings of the day, meaning that not all groups that apply may be able to take part. The NGBE team will review applications in late November.
How to apply
Please send the following documents in a ZIP file to ngbe@ncem.co.uk
A short ensemble biography, including the names and instruments of all members (c. 150 words)
A short audio or video clip of the group performing (3-4 minutes)
A short paragraph describing what the ensemble hopes to gain from your coaching session, and/or specific aspects of your playing or repertoire that you wish to explore
A proposed list of up to 20 minutes of music to be worked on during the session, including composer, title, movements
Digital files or scans of the music listed above
Please also let us know if your ensemble would like to make use of one of the following instruments
Mietke/Kennedy double manual harpsichord at 415 Young temperament
Chamber organ at 415 or 440, equal temperament
Applications must be submitted by noon on Monday 24 November 2025 to ngbe@ncem.co.uk
Ensembles will be notified early December 2025 if they have been offered a place in the workshop.
BBC Radio 3, the National Centre for Early Music and the Royal College of Music announce Bellot Ensemble as the New Generation Baroque Ensemble from October 2025 for two years.
Photographs by Jennifer Hawthorn
Gratefully supported by
