Stéphane Degout at the Music Chapel

In 2004, Bernard de Launoit and José van Dam launched the Singing Department at the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel.

For almost 20 years, our dear Master-in-Residence has nurtured the department with his experience and shared his passion with new generations of young talent.

A few months ago, José van Dam informed us of his desire to “step down”. He will, of course, continue to play an important role on the teaching staff, and will keep a close eye on the activities of our singers.

The Music Chapel would like to thank José from the bottom of its heart for his commitment and his work in passing on his knowledge throughout the years. A special evening will be organized in his honor on November 23.

On the Maestro’s recommendation, the Music Chapel is honored to announce the arrival of Stéphane Degout as Master-in-Residence of the vocal section from the 2023-2024 season, alongside Sophie Koch, Master-in-Residence for the past three seasons. We thank them for their commitment to our institution.

Since his acclaimed debut at the Festival d’Aix-en-Provence in 1999, aged just 24, Stéphane Degout has pursued an international career in a varied repertoire ranging from the Baroque to contemporary creations, in which French music, through melody and the roles of Hamlet and Pelléas, of which he was one of the great interpreters, holds an essential place.

Stéphane Degout has been Guest Master since the 2019-2020 season, and since then has brought all his knowledge and energy to bear on the young Artists in residence who have been lucky enough to work with him.

The Music Chapel is delighted to welcome this prestigious addition to its artistic team!

Anne-Lise Parotte
Artistic Director