Each season, two evenings of fully staged Apprentice Scenes provide audience members with the opportunity to hear and see the work of apprentice designers, technicians, stage managers, and vocalists. For more information, click here.

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Program & Application Information

The application process for the 2009 Apprentice Singer Program ends September 30, 2008.

Singers - Program & Application InformationAn apprenticeship at "America's premier summer opera festival" offers unmatched opportunities for professional experience and international exposure, including the chance to:

Work side by side with the Opera world's greatest talents

Apprentices observe and collaborate with some of opera's greatest talents. The 2008 artistic roster includes directors Peter Sellars and David Alden; conductors Edo de Waart and Harry Bicket; and singers David Daniels, Laura Claycomb, Monica Groop, Claire Rutter, Christine Rice, William Burden, Teddy Tahu Rhodes, Anthony Michaels-Moore, Laurent Naouri, and Mariusz Kwiecien.

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.

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.

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.

Study with nationally-recognized music staff

Apprentices receive private coaching in all role and cover assignments with our music staff. Full-time voice teachers and diction coaches offer regular lessons and repertoire coaching. There are also regular master classes by visiting artists and staff, classes on stage movement, and career counseling sessions.

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.

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