A RENOWNED Shakespearean actor will be joining a team of classical music experts to share their expertise with the next generation of singers and pianists.

James Garnon will be with Samling leaders German mezzo-soprano Angelika Kirchschlager, singing teacher and vocal coach Patricia MacMahon and pianist Malcolm Martineau, at Sage Gateshead on Saturday.

The public event is the culmination of the latest Samling Artist Programme, a week-long intensive residency in which the Samling Artists – six singers and two pianists – work on every aspect of their craft.

During the public masterclass in Sage Two, the artists receive intensive training in all aspects of their technique and artistry, before demonstrating what they have learned over the course of their week with Samling in a 45-minute concert of songs and opera arias.

Samling Artist Programme brings together emerging classical artists with world-class experts. Nearly 300 singers and pianists have taken part since the Hexham-based Samling was founded in 1996, many of whom have since gone on to international careers.

The Samling Artists taking part in November include sopranos Lauren Fagan and Gemma Summerfield, who are respectively from Australia and England.

Also participating are Scottish and New Zealand mezzo-sopranos Emma Kerr and Bianca Andrew, English baritone Stuart Orme, pianist Jams Coleman from Wales and English pianist Michael Pandya.

English Countertenor Tim Morgan completes the line-up.

The Samling Masterclass takes place from 1.30pm to 4.30pm with a 45-minute concert at 5.15pm.

Tickets are £15. Box office: 0191-443 4661.