Merola Opera Program

Programs: Each year, more than 600 artists between the ages of 20 and 34 audition at sites across the country and fewer than 30 are chosen, making it an honor to be accepted into the merola opera program. Merola participants receive intensive training for 11 weeks. Five apprentice coaches arrive one week early for a twelfth week of training designed to enrich their merola experience. The program includes: musical style and interpretation stage technique continued on schedule o ensemble work movement accompaniment makeup acting fencing conducting vocal role coaching prompting languages and diction career coachinga 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 scenes concert, 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 entities. Merola artists complete 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.