FAQs
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OperaWorks™ is a non-hierarchical, immersive training experience that prioritizes the whole artist. Unlike traditional programs that focus solely on vocal technique or performance in a rigid structure, OperaWorks™ offers a deeply personalized, process-driven approach. Every participant receives equal time, attention, and championing, fostering an environment where risk-taking, creative exploration, and individual artistry thrive.
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OperaWorks™ is designed for classical singers, crossover artists, and educators who want to deepen their artistry beyond technical excellence. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a professional performer at any stage of your career, or a voice teacher looking for fresh approaches, there’s a place for you. If you’re seeking an experience that challenges and expands your creative process, helps you build confidence in your unique artistic voice, and gives you real-world tools for success in performance and teaching, OperaWorks™ is for you.
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OperaWorks™ is an immersive, full-day experience with a structured yet flexible schedule that keeps you engaged and active from morning to evening. Participants take part in multiple sessions each day, including performance techniques, movement, acting, musical improvisation, and career development. The schedule is designed to keep you working consistently while allowing space for reflection and integration.
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You will submit recorded material as part of your application, but once accepted, you will not need to learn new repertoire. For coaching sessions, you may bring pieces at any stage—whether newly learned, in progress, or fully polished audition material. However, for all other classes and the performance project, your repertoire must be performance-ready.
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Yes! Many participants find that the full experience of both programs (May 25–June 3) is the most valuable, allowing them to train as both artists and educators. This combined approach helps performers gain insight into the teaching process while providing educators with firsthand experience of the training’s impact.
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Right now, we don’t offer individual scholarships—but not because we don’t want to. We run OperaWorks™ at a true no-profit level, taking every possible step to keep the program affordable and accessible for everyone. All donations we receive go directly toward reducing costs for all participants, rather than singling out a few.
We hope to build a robust scholarship fund in the future to expand access even further. But for now, we’re committed to something just as important: ensuring that OperaWorks™ remains a non-hierarchical, equal-footing space for every artist.
Why No Scholarships?
Most training programs reinforce the industry’s traditional meritocracy—dividing singers into tiers, granting special privileges to a chosen few, and making others feel like they have to “prove” their worth. We reject that model.
✔ No ranking. No competition for the spotlight.
✔ Every artist receives equal time, energy, and championing.
✔ Backed by research: A 2016 study confirmed OperaWorks™ reduces anxiety, shame, and perfectionism—unlike any other program. (See the Study HERE)Scholarships, by nature, create another layer of hierarchy—a system where some singers are deemed more “worthy” than others based on arbitrary measures. We don’t believe in that. At OperaWorks™, everyone walks in on equal footing—so you can focus on what actually matters: your artistry, your growth, and your creative breakthroughs.
We know financial barriers are real. That’s why we’re working toward bigger funding solutions for the whole community—not just for a select few.
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At OperaWorks™, we prioritize a safe, supportive, and communal learning environment. We also recognize that life—like live performance—comes with unpredictability. While we strive to create a safe and supportive space, we cannot control every variable, including exposure to everyday germs.
If you choose not to participate due to concerns about your or another participant’s health or similar circumstances, please understand that tuition is non-refundable. We encourage everyone to be mindful, take reasonable precautions, and approach this experience with flexibility and trust in the shared responsibility of our community.
If You Become Seriously Ill Before the Program
We understand that unexpected health challenges can arise. If a major illness or medical emergency (such as hospitalization, surgery, or a highly contagious illness) prevents you from participating, we offer a 50% credit toward a future OperaWorks program, valid for one year.
To request this credit:
✔️ Notify us as soon as possible before the program begins
✔️ Provide a doctor’s note confirming the medical reason for withdrawalAdditionally, if you need to cancel for any reason, we will attempt to transfer your spot to another eligible artist. If we are able to fill your place, we will provide an 80% refund. You are also welcome to nominate someone to take your spot; they will need to complete the evaluation process to ensure the program is the right fit for them.
If You Become Ill During the Program
If you begin feeling unwell, we ask that you communicate with us immediately. While in-person participation is central to the experience, we will work with you to explore virtual participation options when possible, such as observing sessions remotely or engaging in adapted coursework. Our goal is to ensure you can continue to engage in the program without unnecessary stress or pressure.
At OperaWorks™, we believe that adaptability and resilience are essential skills—not just in the arts, but in life. If you’re not feeling your best, we trust you to take responsible steps for your well-being while also honoring your commitment to your artistic growth and the collective energy of your fellow performers.
Non-Refundable Deposit
A 20% deposit is required to secure your spot in the program and is non-refundable under any circumstances.
Our community thrives on mutual support, collaboration, and an understanding that we are all in this together. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out—we’re here to help.
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OperaWorks™ is held at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. Housing and meal plans are available on campus for an additional fee, or participants may choose to arrange their own accommodations. We strive to make housing as affordable and convenient as possible, and final details will be provided upon acceptance.
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OperaWorks™ maintains an exceptional 1:4 faculty-to-participant ratio, ensuring personalized attention and a highly interactive experience. Our faculty—experienced industry professionals—are dedicated to fostering a supportive, feedback-driven environment where each artist receives meaningful, hands-on guidance.
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OperaWorks™ is not a one-time experience—it’s a lifelong artistic community. Many alumni return for refreshers, reconnect with faculty and peers for mentorship, and use the skills they’ve developed to navigate their careers with greater confidence. We also offer intensives throughout the year in cities like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco to keep the work going.
Beyond training, our alumni stay connected through exclusive performance opportunities, private social media groups for ongoing support, and a shared network of artists who lift each other up. Whether it’s through alumni concerts, career tips, or just a place to celebrate wins (and get inside info about the industry), OperaWorks™ remains a home base for artists at every stage of their journey.
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The application process is simple. Fill out the online application form, attach your headshot and résumé, and, if applying for the Engaged Artist Program, include links to two recent recordings. Educators may submit recordings if they choose but are not required. Thanks to a generous donation from Alongi Media, there is no application fee this season.
APPLY HERE -