Singers Application Info

The Santa Fe Opera’s Apprentice Program for Singers is internationally recognized as one of the finest programs of its kind. On average each year, approximately 42 apprentice singers are chosen from a competitive applicant pool. Those who are selected will participate in a rigorous program of training and performances, which includes supporting roles in main stage operas, starring in two evenings of apprentice scenes, vocal coaching’s, master classes and auditions for opera companies and artist managers.

2023 Season Program Dates
May 29 – August 26, 2023

Application Deadline
Friday, September 2, 2022

Live Audition Schedule

New York City
September 30 – October 3, 2022

Chicago
October 4 – 5, 2022

Houston
October 8, 2022

Los Angeles
October 9, 2022

Please make sure to read the MEDIA REQUIREMENTS below for information about aria submissions. The videos submitted with an application will be used as the preliminary round audition in consideration for a final live audition.

Media Requirements

Applicants are required to submit two (2) separate videos of recorded arias. All videos submitted should be a clear and current representation of you. Please use the following guidelines for your video submissions:

• Videos should be recorded within the past three (3) months. Please mark each submission with the date it was recorded or announce it verbally before you sing;
• Videos should be accompanied by a pianist or piano track (orchestral track or concert setting is fine);
  Each recording should be performed in one “take” without stopping. Do not combine multiple recording sessions together;
• Do not use audio enhancements, effects or editing (except for basic combining of piano/vocal tracks);
• Arias submitted should be in contrasting styles and different languages (one English piece is recommended).

Helpful recording tips can be found on the Opera America website.

Supplemental Materials

A resume and headshot (or quality snapshot of only you) is required to accompany your application.

The Santa Fe Opera uses YAP Tracker to collect and review applications for the 2023 Apprentice Singer Program. You do not need to be a paying subscriber to YAP Tracker to complete the application form, although you will need an account (guest accounts are available here; see the website for details). Be sure to complete the application in full detail in the format requested. Future correspondence regarding your audition status will be sent via email. The email address you supply should be monitored regularly as you will receive confirmation of your application’s receipt. (Please check any SPAM filters while waiting receipt of your application.)

Eligibility

The Santa Fe Opera Apprentice Singer Program is a professional training program for young singers who have recently completed or are completing a formal program of vocal study.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, the Santa Fe Opera celebrates diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate against any employee or job applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, creed, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, age, veteran status, political affiliation or philosophy. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Citizenship and Residency Requirement

Citizens from other countries who are studying at Music Conservatories in the United States are encouraged to apply. Foreign applicants must have the requisite US training or work permits to participate in the program. The Santa Fe Opera will not be responsible for procuring permissions necessary to participate in this program. We respectfully request that applicants know in advance that they are eligible to apply to the program.

American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) Requirements

The Apprentice Singer Program of the Santa Fe Opera is operated in agreement with The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA). This agreement limits the eligibility of candidates of those who:

• have NOT, prior to apprenticeship with the Santa Fe Opera, performed total of six (6) different roles with another professional opera company under regular AGMA Artist’s Contract and
• have NOT been engaged by the Santa Fe Opera more than once before under Apprentice Artist status by AGMA.
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All singers accepted into the program are required to join AGMA if they are not already members

All new members must submit an application for membership and must pay the first of two $50 basic dues payments within one week of their first rehearsal in Santa Fe. The initiation fee (currently $1,000) is due to AGMA by the first contracted performance. If the new member is unable to pay the initiation fee on time, he/she must contact AGMA’s Membership Department by the end of the first week of rehearsals to arrange a payment plan. In addition, Working Dues calculated at 2% of the total compensation will be withheld and remitted to AGMA on each member’s behalf.

Remuneration

2023 Season Apprentice Singers will receive the AGMA weekly rate of $785 ($815 for those in their second-year) as well as a housing and long-distance travel stipend.