|
Each year, nearly 800 artists between the ages of 20 and 34 audition at sites across the country and approximately 29 are chosen, making it an illustrious honor to be accepted into Merola Opera Program. The Merola participants, (approximately 24 singers, 4 apprentice coaches and one stage director) receive intensive training for 11-weeks.
Newly added to the Program in 2007, a fifth apprentice coach will be added to the roster and all five of the coaches will be invited to San Francisco early for a twelfth week of training designed to enrich their Merola experience.
| The Program includes: |
|
musical style and interpretation |
|
stage technique |
|
ensemble work |
|
movement |
|
accompaniment |
|
makeup |
|
acting |
|
fencing |
|
conducting |
|
role coaching |
|
prompting |
|
languages and diction |
A true highlight of the program is the offering of master classes, where some of opera’s most exciting legends transfer their knowledge to the next generation of Merola artists. Participants have several chances to demonstrate their artistic growth as they perform two fully-staged operas during the summer, a free concert at the Yerba Buena Gardens, and the famed Merola Grand Finale at the War Memorial Opera House.
The program is offered free of financial burden to the artists, including their transportation, housing, all training, and a weekly stipend. To accomplish this goal, the program relies on the support of countless individuals, foundations and other granting bodies.
Merola artists graduate from the program with a clear idea of what their next steps will be musically, artistically and technically as they pursue their careers in opera. Some students participate in the program for a second summer and a select few go on to become Adler Fellows with the San Francisco Opera. | 
Print Page
Email to a Friend
RSS
