A talented King’s Ely student has secured a place in the youth development programme at one of the world’s best opera houses.  

Alexandra Bowerman, known as Ally, is one of 20 students selected from across the country to attend the youth academy at Glyndebourne.  

The famous opera house is located in the Sussex Downes, near Lewes. 

Its specialist classical singing programme focuses on the development of promising young performers aged between 14 and 19.  

Ally, who is a member of The Choristers of Ely Cathedral Choir, explained the intense audition process involved submitting a video, then four separate rounds before an in-person audition in Birmingham.  

“... [it] was full on but fun,” she said. 

“I could not believe it when I found out that I had been successful, as hundreds of people auditioned and only 20 people got through.  

“To be one of the 20 makes me feel really proud." 

Ally is currently in Year 13 and joined King’s Ely in Year 9.  

She is a Sixth Form Ely Cathedral Choral Scholar and aspires to be a professional opera singer.  

She also attends the Junior Guildhall School of Music and Drama every Saturday to study voice.  

The opportunity at Glyndebourne Youth Academy will allow her to work with industry professionals who will help her explore various aspects of classical performances. 

Areas they delve into include classical music, singing, movement on stage, drama and languages.  

Mary King, Glyndebourne’s vocal talent consultant and an award-winning mezzo soprano leads the programme, which also offers students an insight into working in the world of opera.  

Ally will also receive guidance on her future development as a singer and what further avenues she could explore in the industry.  

At King's Ely, Ally is currently studying Music, Drama and Art and Design in her A-Levels. She is also Head of the King's Ely Chapel Choir and Chamber Choir.  

Ally recently starred as ‘Vivienne’ in the school’s recent production of the musical Legally Blonde.