Opera singer and Old Seafordian James Cleverton inspired students last week with an insightful vocal masterclass.

The internationally renowned baritone attended Seaford between 1985 and 1991 and became Head Chorister. He praised the quality of the current crop of singers at Seaford and the facilities they now enjoy. James also urged students thinking of singing professionally to embrace the opportunities and life experiences it could bring them.

James’s two great passions of music and sport were well catered for at Seaford. “I look back on my time here at Seaford as some of the best years of my life, and I loved the opportunities it gave me,” he said. “And I know from my peers, who I’m still in touch with, that they would say the same thing.

“Seaford is nationally, if not internationally, known for its performing arts and its sports. As an educational establishment, it’s unparalleled for providing those opportunities and creating life experiences that you’ll carry through your entire careers and lives.”

Sara Reynolds, Director of Performing Arts, said that James was an utter delight to host. “He gave technical reinforcement with regards to vocal excellence and was wonderfully detailed in his advice towards each student about style, language and performance techniques on their individual songs,” she said.

Those lucky enough to watch the masterclass were also keen to find out about his time at Seaford when he was here as a boarder. “I look forward to welcoming him back soon to impart more of his excellent knowledge and guidance, and hope to take the students to the to watch him perform at the Royal Opera House in London,” said Sara.