Advanced Artist Program

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"OperaWorks isn't a program for your voice; it’s a program for your soul."

-Sarah Nisbett (2009), Opera Company of Philadelphia; Tanglewood Fellow; 1st Place-National Opera Association Vocal Competition

June 24 - July 22, 2012

OperaWorks brings the best of both worlds from acting and classical singing to a "no compromises" well-rounded performance where acting choices support the vocal technique and vice versa.  

This intensive four-week program is for managed singers, those with Young Artist Program experience or with career potential.

SINGER BENEFITS:

  • compelling acting skills
  • increased vocal freedom
  • improved physical & vocal freedom
  • comprehensive business skills & career plan
  • empowering performance experience
  • life-long supportive network

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Individualized classes include Performance Techniques, Acting, Improvisation, Alexander Technique, Yoga, Physical Theater, Conducting, Marketing and Career Planning.  The program culminates in two public performances of a new production.  


Auditions

Auditions will be scheduled only when we have received all of the following items: (1) Completed Application (2) Headshot or Photo (3) Resume (4) Application Fee (non-refundable). Accompanists will be provided free of charge at all live auditions.

LIVE AUDITION REQUIREMENTS: prepare 5 contrasting arias and/or art songs in at least 3 languages
DVD/CD/MP3 AUDITION REQUIREMENTS: submit 3 contrasting arias and/or art songs in 3 languages

LOCATION DEADLINE AUDITION
Los Angeles January 6, 2012 January 14-15, 2012
Boston January 20, 2012 January 25-26, 2012
New York January 20, 2012 January 28-29, 2012
Chicago January 27, 2012 February 4, 2012
Dallas/Ft.Worth January 27, 2012 February 11, 2012
Phoenix January 27, 2012 February 16, 2012
San Diego January 27, 2012 February 18, 2012
RECORDED January 27, 2012 (postmarked)    

Example Schedule  |  Program Faculty  |  Housing  |  Course Costs
Fundraising & Scholarships | Program Alumni Contact | APPLY NOW!


Example Schedule

Day/Time MON TUE WED THUR FRI
9:30 Perf Tech Acting Improv Perf Tech Acting
10:45 Coaching (free) Business Coaching Improv
12:00 Yoga Yoga Yoga Yoga Yoga
1:00 Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch
2:30 Alex Tech Conducting Alex Tech Conducting Alex Tech
3:45 Visualization Rehearsal Rehearsal Rehearsal Movement
5:00 Rehearsal Movement Movement Movement Wrap-Up

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Faculty

OperaWorks' demanding curriculum is taught in a supportive, non-judgemental environment where singers have the freedom to experiment vocally, dramatically, and physically without fear of criticism.

Our distinguished faculty consists of outstanding professionals who have studied and worked in their fields to gain a sound foundation in the operatic traditions, but who are also willing to lay aside those traditions to seek out new ways of teaching performers in the 21st century.

Read about OperaWorks faculty.

 


Housing

The spacious apartments include two bedrooms with a living room, dining area, full kitchen, private balcony and swimming pool. Double occupancy rate is for two people per bedroom, four per apartment. Single rooms (one per bedroom) are also available at additional cost. Housing fee reflects the cost for room only. Meals are not included.

Your OperaWorks experience is greatly enhanced by living in California State University-Northridge campus apartments. Relaxing with colleagues after an intense day, discussing the ideas and discoveries you made, as well as giving and receiving daily encouragement and support from them builds a confidence that can last throughout your lifetime.

 


Cost

The cost of attending any high quality program is an investment in your career and at OperaWorks we take this very seriously. Our nearly 2:1 singer-teacher ratio gives you unparalleled individualized attention, extraordinary performance experiences, and a lifetime network. OperaWorks is an investment in your future.

  • 2012 Application Fee - $45
  • Tuition - $3,575
  • Housing - $840*
    • Check-in date: Sunday, June 24, 2012
    • Check-out date: Monday, July 23, 2012

*Housing cost based on double occupancy. Meals not included.  Single rooms available for an additional cost.

**Please note: Upon acceptance into the program, a non-refundable deposit of $500 will be due in order to secure your spot. Tuition can be paid at once or in monthly installments thereafter. No refunds can be issued after May, 1 2012.

 


Fundraising and Scholarships

"OperaWorks was the first program I applied to that suggested fundraising and provided me with the publicity materials and resources I needed to gain support. Other places suggested this option, but provided no marketing materials or 'How-To Guide'...."

-Tiffany Desmond (2007) Roosevelt University; Ithaca College

Pursuing a singing career requires an enormous investment of time and money. As part of OperaWorks' commitment to life-long learning, singers accepted into the program are provided with a personalized fundraising packet. Using the guidelines and tools in the packet, singers have raised all, part or more than their costs for OperaWorks. Alumni have continued to use these skills after OperaWorks to fund further training, relocations to New York or European audition tours.

Apply for a scholarship. Download Here: .pdf .doc
Deadline: February 13, 2012

 


Program Alumni

"OperaWorks" on a resume represents a brand of performer who is well-trained, creative, and not afraid to be themselves.  Our alumni are singing on stages all over the world, teaching the next generation of performers, or executives of their own opera companies.  The possibilities are limitless for those who have the courage to follow their passions.

A short list of the opera companies where OperaWorks alumni have recently performed:

  • The Metropolitan Opera
  • Lyric Opera of Chicago
  • New York City Opera
  • Los Angeles Opera
  • Seattle Opera
  • Santa Fe Opera
  • San Diego Opera
  • Deutsch Oper
  • Leipzig Oper
  • Darmstadt Oper
  • Canadian Opera Company

Recent Young Artist Programs including:

  • San Francisco Opera Merola Program
  • Seattle Opera
  • Minnesota Opera
  • Des Moines Opera
  • Sarasota Opera
  • Santa Fe Opera

To see where our alumni are currently performing, see our Alumni News Page!

Apply Now


Questions? Contact:
Stephanie Howard, Programs Administrator
programs@operaworks.org
818.831.9597