Apprentice Singers

The Santa Fe Opera's Apprentice Program for Singers is internationally recognized as one of the finest programs of its type. On average each year approximately 40 apprentice singers are selected from more than 1,500 applicants.Those who are selected participate in a rigorous program of training and performances, which includes supporting roles in mainstage operas, starring in two evenings of apprentice scenes, vocal coachings, auditions, and many other activities.
The Apprentice Singer Program has been helping young singers establish their careers since 1957. The 2011-2012 season will see former Santa Fe apprentices in principal roles at The Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Royal Opera House, La Scala, Opéra National de Paris, San Francisco Opera and other prominent companies.
Program Information
The application deadline for the 2012 season has passed.
2013 Season applications will be accepted in the late summer of 2012.
An apprenticeship at "America's premier summer opera festival" offers unmatched opportunities for professional experience and international exposure, including the chance to:

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Work side by side with the Opera world's greatest talents
While at Santa Fe, apprentices observe and collaborate with some of the greatest artists in the opera world.
Be cast in mainstage productions
Apprentices participate in mainstage productions in various supporting roles, in the ensemble, and as covers. Cover assignments are carefully rehearsed and prepared following each production's opening night.
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Rehearse on the Opera's beautiful 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.
Perform and audition for opera executives from major companies
Representatives of over 25 musical organizations, such as the Met, the English National Opera, Chicago, San Francisco, New York City, and Houston come to Santa Fe to see the apprentice scenes evenings and attend two days of onstage auditions.
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Study with nationally-recognized music staff
Apprentices receive private coaching in all role and cover assignments, with master classes and private sessions available from renowned voice teachers, coaches, and visiting artists. Representatives from over 30 musical organizations, including the Met, Chicago, San Francisco, New York City, and Houston operas come to Santa Fe to audition apprentices and see them take the spotlight in two programs of fully-produced opera scenes.
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Return to Santa Fe as a principal singer
The Santa Fe Opera's commitment to its apprentices 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.
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“The summer I spent as a Santa Fe Opera apprentice afforded me the unique and vital opportunity to study intensively with exceptional master teachers and coaches, perform and grow onstage, observing some of the best singers in the world working each day on The Santa Fe Opera campus. Santa Fe Opera’s apprentice program is an invaluable educational experience in any young singer’s journey of artistic and musical growth.”
– Kate Lindsey, SFO Apprentice Singer, 2003 (Nicklausse in The Tales of Hoffmann, 2010
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Program Dates: May 31 through August 25, 2012
The application deadline for the 2012 season has passed.
2013 Season applications will be accepted in the late summer of 2012.