Shireland CBSO Academy welcomed internationally acclaimed American bass-baritone Davóne Tines for an inspirational visit, giving students a unique insight into the world of professional music and creative performance.
Tines is a graduate of Harvard University, one of the world’s leading research institutions, and the Julliard School, a globally renowned conservatoire recognised for training exceptional music performers. He is also a founding member of the American Modern Opera Company, a collective established to push the boundaries of opera through innovative and collaborative performance.
During his visit, Tines spoke with students about his journey as a musician, his creative process and the importance of expressing identity through art. Learners had the opportunity to ask questions and hear first-hand from one of the leading voices in modern opera. Tines shared how his genre-blending approach, commitment to social storytelling and passion for making classical music more accessible have shaped his career.
He encouraged students to explore how music can communicate emotion, culture and personal experience, highlighting that creativity and individuality are powerful tools for artistic expression. His passion for opening up classical music to new audiences resonated strongly with learners and inspired them to think differently about the possibilities of a career in the arts.
School Principal, David Green, said: “It was a privilege to welcome Davóne to our Academy and give our students the opportunity to learn from someone performing at the very highest level. His journey demonstrated the value of creativity, resilience and staying true to your own voice. Experiences like this help our learners see what is possible, broaden their aspirations and build the confidence to pursue their own interests and ambitions.”
The visit reflected Shireland CBSO Academy’s commitment to providing students with meaningful experiences that enrich their learning beyond the classroom. Meeting and learning from a musician of Tines’ calibre gave learners a greater understanding of the dedication, creativity and self-expression that underpin a successful career in the arts. The experience also encouraged them to explore their own talents with confidence.
