Emerging Artist Program

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"OperaWorks [has] changed my entire outlook on art and my approach to life. I still think about that summer in 2007 and cannot imagine who I would have turned out to be had I not experienced OperaWorks."

-Antoni Mendezona (Emerging Artist 2007) Szeged National Theatre (Hungary); Connecticut Grand Opera; Dicapo Opera Theatre (NY)

June 3-17, 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 two-week program is for exceptionally talented younger singers with career potential but limited performance experience.

SINGER BENEFITS:

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

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

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

Example Schedule

Faculty

OperaWorks' challenging 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 preparing singers for 21st century productions.

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 a 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 - $1,975
• Housing - $435*
  • Check-in date: Sunday, June 3, 2012
  • Check-out date: Monday, June 18, 2012

*Housing cost based on double occupancy. Meals not included.  Single room 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!

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