British lyric soprano Rachel Howe is currently pursuing a Master’s in Vocal Performance at the Royal College of Music, London, where she studies with Veronica Veysey Campbell and is generously supported by the Helen Majorie Tonks Scholarship. Recent and upcoming engagements include as soloist in the RCM Museum Late concert series, a John Dowland Celebration in Bremen, and role performances as Lysia in Lysistrata (Adamo) and Galatea in Handel’s Acis and Galatea. Originally from Cambridge, Rachel began singing lessons at the age of twelve and, strongly encouraged by family and teachers, went on to read Music at The Queen’s College, Oxford. There she was awarded an academic scholarship and the senior Hildburg Williams Lieder Award in the prestigious chapel choir. She has since appeared with numerous distinguished vocal ensembles and as a soloist across the UK and abroad. Rachel has a particular affinity for English song and enjoys curating recital programmes that champion music by female and underrepresented composers. Her versatile voice and engaging stage presence support a broad repertoire spanning early music, art song, opera, oratorio, and contemporary works. She is therefore delighted to explore more new repertoire through this competition.