The National Opera Studio plays an essential part at the heart of opera training in the UK: our core purpose is the development of talent. Young Artists undergo rigorous professional development programmes that are individually designed around their vocal and developmental needs. As we are not attached to one opera house, we are not subject to main stage activity and do not cast dependent on productions: we select young artists purely on merit. This means that we can give each artist the attention, focus and crucially, coaching hours, that is far more intense and individualised than on other young artist programmes. We also stand out for our emphasis on artist resilience and the profession itself, our unique partnerships with the opera companies, our national status and international outlook. Alongside our access to world-class coaches and artists and our focus on professional development, our independence and bespoke, tailored activity is key to our success.

 

The NOS has a unique place in the fabric of British musical life. Taking young,  post-college artists it toughens them up to the demands of a profession that is constantly changing, sending them out as mature, commercially viable singers and pianists, rather than gifted youngsters that cross the threshold six months earlier. NOS is a shining example of tough love at its best. With an inspired selection of coaches from different branches of the opera world they nurture and guide their trainees, while also exposing them to the reality of the formidable challenges ahead. The building has a wonderful energy within it, and I am in awe of the work ethic they promote. It is irreplaceable and deserves maximum support.

 Iain Burnside
NOS Coach

The success of the NOS is reflected in the professional presence of our alumni in the UK and internationally. 96% of NOS singer alumni have been employed by at least one of our six partner companies.  76% have had international success in over 56 cities in 30 countries.

Our new vision and mission deepens and broadens our commitment to finding, developing and supporting diverse talent for a changing profession, as well as demonstrating leadership by facilitating conversation across the sector, while keeping our mission within the scope of the terms under which we were set up 40 years ago. We aim to make a significant contribution to the opera ecology and the wider creative and cultural life of the UK through the provision of top-quality training across all our programmes, through our engagement and position in the sector, through our partnerships and through public engagement.

 

Header Photo: Trystan Llyr Griffiths 2015