Our Mission
“Black British Classical Foundation, the charity exists for the purpose of nurturing an interest and participation in the classical arts, in particular, Opera, amongst communities of colour in the UK and beyond.”
– Vincent Osborne
Empowering voices. Expanding horizons.
At the Black British Classical Foundation, we champion diversity in opera and the classical arts by nurturing talent, creating opportunity, and inspiring new generations. Through performance, education, and our flagship Voice of Black Opera competition, we open doors for Black and South Asian artists across the Commonwealth to take centre stage.
Inspiring future generations
The Black British Classical Foundation addresses the situation where ethnic minorities are underrepresented in the field of opera and the Classical arts in general. Across society, powerful role models can inspire future generations, whether it is in sport, science, or the arts. By fulfilling this need we hope to encourage minority audiences to see possibilities for themselves, to say, “Yes, I too can do that!”
Reaching communities through music
Through our work, we connect with many different communities including schools, prisons, places of worship including churches, and the health and caring communities. However our major project is a biannual competition ‘Voice OF Black Opera’ for Black and South Asian singers from the British Commonwealth.
Where talent meets opportunity
The Voice of Black Opera competition has the potential to change the lives of the winners. Twelve singers are brought to the UK from around the world and after a series of live heats are reduced to five, who will each perform a twenty minute programme with a full orchestra at the Gala Finals. The previous winner was Elizabeth Llewellyn, of Jamaican heritage, who has gone on to sing a number of prestigious roles including the lead role, Mimi, in La Boheme with the English National Opera.
Honouring Our Roots. Strengthening Our Reach.
From early performances and international tours to grassroots partnerships and local music-making, our journey has always been guided by connection — to heritage, to people, and to place. Whether nurturing new voices or uplifting communities through accessible performance, the Black British Classical Foundation continues to build on a legacy of shared experience and cultural expression.
New Voices Old Song
‘New Voices Old Song’ was the forerunner of the Black British Classical Foundation. Apart from platform performances in the bars of the Brixtonian, ‘New Voices Old Song’ took part in many festivals including The Covent Garden Festival.
New Voices also went on tour to the Caribbean including Barbados, St.Lucia and St.Kitts. By day workshops within schools and by evening, Operatic Concerts playing to full and appreciative audiences.
Community
All our work is created with the community at its heart. Whether through accessible ticketing — offering ‘pay what you can’ options for those facing financial hardship — or by providing transport for elderly audience members, we are committed to removing barriers and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience our concerts.
Currently, our community engagement is centred around North Croydon were we support Holy Innocents Church in their fundraising effort in becoming a community and music Hub.
Holy Trinity School, Tulse Hill, where we engage with the school and the Windmill Cluster to support the development of music making among the school children and the development of a parent/teachers choir.
