Ian Yemm originates from Shropshire. After graduating from University he studied at the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Music with singing professors, Joy Mammen and Noelle Barker OBE and was coached by Geoffrey Pratley.

During his studies he established a reputation as a significant performer of Bach and Handel and gave many performances of the Passions and the Messiah among other oratorios. He also developed a passion for interpreting the repertoire for tenor voice by Benjamin Britten, on the concert platform, in recital and on the operatic stage.
He sang in masterclasses for renowned tenors, Nicolai Gedda, Philip Langridge and Robert Tear and appeared as a soloist under conductors such as Laszlo Heltay, Richard Hickox and Lutz Köhler.

From College, he went directly to the prestigious chorus of Glyndebourne Opera.

From 2003-2009 he was a member of the internationally acclaimed chorus of Welsh National Opera singing numerous roles for the company, including television appearances and his debuts at the Royal Albert Hall in the BBC Proms and at the Hong Kong Festival. He performed as a principal for WNO under the baton of Jean-Yves Ossance, Carlo Rizzi, Vassily Sinaisky and Tugan Sokhiev.

In 2006 he sang the role of Mark in Dame Ethel Smyth's 'The Wreckers' for Duchy Opera In Cornwall to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the work's first performance.

2008 being the 50th Anniversary of the death of Ralph Vaughan Williams, he performed a series of song recitals around the UK of music by the composer, including 'On Wenlock' Edge in Much Wenlock Parish Church in Shropshire.

He is singing teacher to the lay clerks and choral scholars at Bristol Cathedral alongside a busy private teaching practice. He offers continuing professional development for singing teachers and is involved in a masterclass series aimed at inspiring and informing young singers.

He currently studies with Beatrice Unsworth.

Please see NEWS AND EVENTS for forthcoming performances.