Opera

The Opera School of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music enjoys an outstanding reputation for the consistent production of excellent quality singers.

In Australia, a large percentage of these singers are employed as full time artists by our national company, Opera Australia, in State Opera Companies, on the concert platform in oratorio, recital, and broadcasts by the ABC. Internationally, many graduates are in Young Artist programs in opera companies.

Currently, these include Zurich, Cologne, Vienna and Rome.
The Unit has produced an unrivalled number of singers who represent us in the most elite national singing competitions which provide lucrative financial prizes and opportunities for an international career.

Haydn:La Fedeltà Premiata, Sydney Conservatorium of Music, October 2005

The Opera School encourages the development of the voice as an operatic instrument through the continuing enhancement of technical skills, upon which the musical and artistic standards of the profession can be met.
Emphasis is always placed on the importance of language with correct pronunciation as well as the musical and dramatic interplay of characters.
Focus on the study of roles and characterization is comprehensively addressed, as is a wide range of diverse operatic repertoire.

Students will explore the style and operatic traditions of repertoire from Monteverdi to the major works of the twentieth century. Individual lessons, coaching and ensemble classes assist students in the study of this repertoire. Performance opportunities are provided through weekly Performance Workshops, Masterclasses and Opera Performance Class. Opera productions endeavour to allow all students to work with national and international directors and conductors. An active concert program gives further opportunities.

Poulenc, Dialogues of the Carmelites (2001)