SARASOTA OPERA APPRENTICE ARTISTS
The Sarasota Opera Apprentice Artists Program was started in 1982. Like similar programs throughout the country, it is meant to help trained singers in the important transition from student to professional life.
The program functions within the aesthetic of Sarasota Opera by focusing on the standard operatic repertoire from Mozart to Puccini.
The company provides many performing opportunities throughout its fall and winter seasons. The training aspect of the program focuses on encouraging singers to give impassioned performances through vocal expression with an understanding of the meaning of the text, the poetry, and the music. In private coaching’s and classes, acting is approached through an efficiency of movement that brings out the meaning of the work rather than obscuring it.
The company aims for a consistent teaching approach that is supported by the artistic staff and the productions we produce on our stage.
Applications for the Winter 2024 Apprentice Program are being accepted now through August 18th. The program runs January 10 through March 24, 2024 and includes participating in the chorus of the four Main Stage productions of Bizet’s Carmen, Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor, and Verdi's Luisa Miller.
In addition, Apprentice Artists will:
Participate in classes and coachings given by Victor DeRenzi (Artistic Director of Sarasota Opera), Arthur Bosarge (Chorus Master/Program and Music Director of the Apprentice Artists), Martha Collins (Apprentice Artists Program stage director), Stephanie Sundine (Apprentice Artists Program stage director), and other members of the Sarasota Opera staff.
Coach music with members of the music staff
Coach foreign languages with native-born speakers
Participate in master classes
Network with experienced colleagues
Perform at concerts during the season
Perform and cover main stage roles.