Talent Development at The Bushnell, a Legacy of Love

The Ensign-Darling Vocal Fellowship (EDVF) began in 2002 as a full scholarship program for gifted, highly motivated high school singers interested in classical and theatrical music.

The Fellowship was made possible by an extraordinary gift from former Bushnell Trustee Robert E. Darling Jr., which provides for 25 years of program funding. A singer himself, Bob’s dream was to provide young vocalists with exceptional natural talent the training and exposure to which they otherwise might not have access.

When the COVID-19 pandemic caused a shift of all programs to virtual spaces, the Fellowship continued with online vocal lessons and master classes, culminating in an innovative virtual concert in the summer of 2021. This shift inspired us to imagine the possibility of reaching even more incredibly talented young vocalists throughout the community, and The Bushnell unveiled the next chapter in this esteemed program’s evolution with the introduction of the Ensign-Darling Vocal Fellowship presents Ensign-Darling New Voices (EDNV).

Using experience as a guide and referencing Bob Darling’s original vision, New Voices serves as a platform for innovative, transformative and unique storytelling for creative vocalists, ages 15-19, in musical theater, classical/opera, pop/rock, hip hop/rap, jazz/R&B and more.

The expanded program provides complimentary, private vocal coaching, voice lessons, and a monthly Master Class for approximately 20 selected young Fellows in music theory, audition preparation and performance technique.

As fate would have it, Artistic Director Ariana Valdes is an alumna of the very first EDVF class in 2002. A performer with over 15 years of professional experience, she has appeared nationally and internationally in touring Broadway and regional productions. Ariana is committed to meaningfully engaging with these emerging artists, meeting them “where they are” in their artistic journey.

The Ensign-Vocal Fellowship presents Ensign-Darling New Voices (EDNV) spring concert will be held this year on May 7 at The Bushnell. Join us to experience a special showcase of the talents of this year’s class and celebrate the vision and philanthropy of our founder and friend, Bob Darling!

About Bob Darling

Bob made his stage debut in a Gilbert and Sullivan production at Renbrook School at the age of 10; that same year, his parents brought him to The Bushnell to hear the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Those experiences ignited in him a lifelong appreciation of the arts. He even sang on The Bushnell stage—five times!—as a member of the Deerfield Academy and Yale University Glee Clubs.

Bob joined The Bushnell’s Board of Trustees in 1981 and served in various capacities, including as Vice President and Honorary Trustee, for 28 years. In collaboration with staff, Bob created the Ensign-Darling Vocal Fellowship program in 2002, and through both extraordinary generosity during his life and a legacy gift, he provided funding for the program for 25 years.