About the Singers Program
Work with the Opera World’s Greatest Talents
Singers observe and collaborate with world-renowned artists such as Joyce DiDonato, Susan Graham, Patricia Racette, Elza van den Heever, Morris Robinson, James Morris, as well as directors like Laurent Pelly, Louisa Muller, Jim Robinson, David McVicar and Netia Jones. Each demonstrate the level of professionalism and artistry it takes to be successful in the opera world.
Mainstage Productions
Apprentice singers participate in mainstage productions in the ensemble and sing various supporting roles. Throughout the festival season, apprentice singers also have the opportunity to cover leading and featured roles.
The list of singers who have had important career breaks at Santa Fe reads like an honor roll of American opera’s most exciting artists.
Opera News
Santa Fe Opera Campus
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Santa Fe Opera is considered “one of the most breathtakingly beautiful settings for opera” (London Telegraph). Seven rehearsal halls, dining facilities and a swimming pool are set amid the Opera’s beautifully landscaped grounds.
Apprentice Industry Showcases and Scenes
Our apprentice singers perform and audition for industry leaders and representatives from over 40 musical organizations, such as The Metropolitan Opera, Washington National Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, San Francisco Opera, Houston Grand Opera, Bayerische Staatsoper, Staatsoper Stuttgart, Oper Frankfurt, and Irish National Opera.
On the last two Sundays of the festival season, our Apprentice Singers and Technicians perform in fully staged scene program. These scenes programs encompass works from Monteverdi to Gregory Spears.
The wonderful performing opportunities and intensive instructions the young artists receive here are invaluable and could very well be the building blocks to their own spectacular careers.
Joyce Didonato, SFO Apprentice Singer, 1995
Study with Nationally Recognized Music Staff
Apprentices receive private coaching in all role and cover assignments from renowned voice teachers and coaches. They also participate in master classes given by visiting artists, conductors and directors of high caliber.
Return to Santa Fe as a Principal Singer
The Santa Fe Opera’s commitment to its apprentice singers lasts longer than just the summer season. Apprentices are regularly invited to return in leading and featured roles, which can often be the crucial next step in launching successful careers. Current and recent apprentices are often featured in each one of the season’s productions.
