Are you a harpsichordist who aspires to be a musical director? Not sure how to pursue your dream? These are not often-asked questions, nor do they have obvious answers, unlike, for instance, do you want to be a concert pianist, or violinist, or flautist? (Answer: start at an early age, study with a respected professional, spend hours upon hours alone in a practice room, etc).

Directing an orchestra from the harpsichord is a unique multi-disciplinary undertaking, combining conducting and communication, a keen sense of physical movement and its effect on music making, artistic vision and authority.

And it requires a forum in which to be able to practice. With the realisation that aspiring young directors lack opportunities to receive guidance and hone their skills, Harry Bicket and The English Concert will stage their second directing Master Class 25 - 29 June 2012, in the intimate surroundings of London's Foundling Museum Picture Gallery. Four apprentices will be hand-picked by Bicket and put through their paces to learn first-hand the nuances of this specialist field.

Applications close 30 March: For more information and to apply go to http://englishconcert.co.uk/masterclass/index.php