Opera mentor scheme is a Midlands first
A FREE programme to develop the next generation of opera singers in the West Midlands has been launched by Birmingham City University’s Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and the Royal Opera House.
Opera Nation is a free talent pipeline programme for young people aged 14 to 18 and offers a series of workshops, residential courses and professional support to establish a long-lasting talent development structure in the region.
It will open with a series of free workshops this month and next, and any passionate young singer can apply.
The sessions begin on Monday, December 9 in Walsall (from 6pm to 9pm) and youngsters can sign up for one of 300 free places (60 per workshop).
There will also be sessions in Dudley (January 14, 6pm to 9pm), Worcester (January 20, 6pm to 9pm), Birmingham (January 22, 6pm to 9pm) and Coventry (January 21, 6pm to 9pm).
The workshops will see professional musicians from the Royal Opera House and the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire nurture the young people’s vocal, musical talents and stagecraft skills.
Following the workshops, 60 students will be selected to attend a residential course, before a final 30 are selected to begin a programme that offers up to four years of professional mentoring, training and support.
Opera Nation is the first programme of its kind in the Midlands.
The RBC and ROH will also work with schools and music services to target talented young people who require mentoring and professional support.
Julian Lloyd Webber, Principal of Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, said: “Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and the Royal Opera House share an ethos of inclusion and widening participation and we’re delighted to be launching this fantastic opportunity to nurture young singers from diverse backgrounds.
“Opera Nation will make a significant contribution to the musical development of young people across the West Midlands.”
Abigail Kelly, opera singer and ambassador for Opera Nation, said: “By removing barriers to training, initiatives like Opera Nation empower young people and ensure that every young person, regardless of their background, has access to music and a musical education.
“Having grown up in Birmingham this project is close to my heart and I look forward to working with young people across the region to mentor and support their futures.
“Whether those involved go on to be professional singers or take different career paths, this accessible programme provides a wonderful opportunity for young people from across the West Midlands to work with many talented professionals and offer unrivalled insight into the artform.”
Youngsters can sign up to a Opera Nation workshop at operanation.eventbrite.co.uk
free