Founded in 1984, Florida Grand Opera’s Young Artist Studio has gained worldwide recognition as one of the leading operatic training programs in the United States. The program provides talented young singers and coach/accompanists with an opportunity to refine the skills developed during formal music education, targeting those areas necessary to develop a successful career in opera.

The selected artists receive extensive coaching and instruction during the 6-8 month residency. Under the guidance of a staff of working professionals, Florida Grand Opera’s Young Artists study with renowned artists and teachers from every aspect of the world of opera while gaining valuable performance experience. Singers receive individual coaching sessions and participate in master classes and seminars given by acclaimed guest artists. Special classes in audition techniques, fight choreography, dance, tax and personal finance, and public relations may also be offered. Coach/accompanists work directly with their singer colleagues and receive guidance and instruction from resident FGO staff as well as guest conductors and directors. They also gain experience in production aspects of opera, including supertitles and accompanying chorus and other mainstage rehearsals as assigned.

The highly competitive program accepts 8-12 artists from over 600 applicants each year and has trained more than 150 young professionals who now appear on the stages of the nation’s leading operatic and theatrical organizations. During their residency, Young Artists perform recitals and concerts for the community and outreach programs for students, inspiring a new generation and gaining valuable experience and feedback. Perhaps most importantly, the Young Artists perform featured and supporting roles in mainstage performances as well as study appropriate leading roles in the season’s repertoire.

Graduates of the program who have returned in leading roles in FGO productions include Sarah Coburn, Rachele Gilmore, Leah Partridge, Elizabeth Caballero, Jonathan Michie, Andrew Bidlack, and Tom Corbeil.

Members of the Young Artists Studio are provided the following:

• Weekly stipend
• Housing
• Utilities (except phone)
• Round-trip transportation to Miami

All Young Artists are responsible for their own transportation and vehicle during their residence in Miami.

Staff

Ramon Tebar, Music Director of Florida Grand Opera
Roberto Berrocal, Principal Coach
Lydon Meyer, Young Artists Coach

Sponsorship Opportunities

Every season FGO seeks sponsors for each Young Artist to assist in covering the costs of stipends, voice instruction, and other training and career development activities. Learn more about artists for the current season.

Young Artist Program Director: $20,000
Young Artist Sponsor: $15,000
Annual Family Day sponsor: $10,000
Master Class Sponsor: $1,500
General Supporter: $500