Philip Langridge Mentoring Scheme

Renowned tenor Philip Langridge was a staunch member and Council member of the Royal Philharmonic Society until his untimely death in March 2010. Endlessly positive and energetic, and passionate about communication through performance, he often spoke about what the RPS could do to extend its support for musicians entering the profession.

At Philip’s suggestion the Royal Philharmonic Society began discussions with the Young Classical Artists Trust (another organisation of which he was a trustee) to explore ways in which established musicians could pass on their wisdom and experience to those just starting out in the profession. The seeds of an idea for mentoring musicians mentoring were sewn and the RPS and YCAT launched the Philip Langridge Mentoring Scheme in autumn 2010.

At the heart of PLMS is the development of a relationship between two musicians – not a teacher pupil relationship but one of colleagues.  This is essentially something private and elusive and different musicians will respond in different ways. Without being prescriptive we aim to give space and encouragement to allow discussion of performance issues, exploration of repertoire and the exchange of ideas about interpretation.

Distinguished mezzo-soprano Ann Murray DBE, Philip’s wife, launched the scheme on Tuesday 2 November at the Wigmore Hall with a masterclass working with YCAT mezzo-sopranos Kathryn Rudge and Helen Sherman and pianist James Baillieu.

We are delighted to announce that pianist Imogen Cooper and and cellist Steven Isserlis have agreed to be among the first mentors for the scheme, working with Alexandra Dariescu and Philip Higham.

A dedicated website will be launched in autumn 2011.

PLMS is grateful for the kind support of all those who are making this project possible including: Raymond Gubbay CBE, Andre Bernheim Charitable Trust, Fenton Arts Trust, Garrick Charitable Trust, Leche Trust and John S Cohen Foundation