Studio Saturdays

This short course is designed for pianists interested in exploring the wonderful world of opera. Over one intensive day, we will explore a set of core skills for repetiteurs, including  

• how to play like an orchestra 

• how to interpret and refine piano reductions 

• how to listen to singers, understand and accommodate their needs, and how to coach 

• how to work with and follow a conductor 

You will receive expert guidance from a distinguished team of professionals: 

• Andrew Griffiths, Head Coach at the National Opera Studio and conductor with credits including The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet, Welsh National Opera, and Opera North 
• Liz Rowe, repetiteur and vocal coach who has worked at The Royal Opera, Oper Frankfurt, Canadian Opera Company, Glyndebourne, Scottish Opera, Opera North, Opera Holland Park, English Touring Opera, Birmingham Opera Company, and British Youth Opera 
• Eric Melear, Artistic Director of The National Opera Studio, and former member of the music staff at both the Vienna State Opera and The Metropolitan Opera. He has also guest conducted at the Seiji Ozawa Matsumoto Festival and numerous U.S. opera houses including Houston Grand Opera, Arizona Opera, Wolf Trap Opera, and Des Moines Metro Opera. 

A modest amount of repertoire will be specified well in advance of the course. Participants are encouraged to prepare some of this music and are welcome to play or sing during the sessions. However, there is no guarantee that everyone will have the opportunity to perform, due to the structure of the day. If you prefer not to play, you will still benefit greatly from observing other participants and from the coaching provided by the course leaders. 

Eligibility 

• You must be at least 18 years old by the start of the course 
• You will be an accomplished pianist with an interest in working alongside singers and exploring operatic repertoire. However, no prior experience of working in opera is required. 

Cost
Free