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ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The SAS Opera Studio is excited to invite all aspiring professional opera singers to our unique performance-driven workshop, ROLE (Repertory Onstage Learning Experience). This one-of-a-kind program, crafted to foster the complete artist in you, is open to performers of all levels of expertise. Our dedication to enhancing each artist's education and development is evident in the integral role that rehearsal and coaching play in the schedule.

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Our 3-week program, scheduled from July 6 to July 27 in the vibrant city of New York, is a hands-on study of two complete operas; Mozart Cosi fan Tutte and Rossini La Cenerentola. We focus on enabling participants to fully embody a character, sing recitative with freedom, and explore their character's role in the drama.  The journey begins with the music, followed by the complete blocking of the opera. We delve into the score and the text to understand the character relationships, their impact on the drama, and the emotional or spiritual motivations behind their actions. The performances will be semi-staged and accompanied by a piano. They will have a music director/rehearsal accompanist, and a stage director. Productions will provide essential technical assistance with costumes and props, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all participants. The casting for the operas will be thoughtfully determined based on the number of participants and their specific roles. We are committed to making casting decisions promptly, as soon as we fully assess the program's composition, to give everyone the best possible opportunity to shine.

Rehearsal and coaching are the major part of the daily schedule at the Opera Workshop.  Our faculty will guide the performers through the linguistic, dramatic, and musical style, in addition to the technical vocal demands of the role that they have been assigned. 

Moreover, participants will have the invaluable opportunity to attend master classes conducted by international luminaries of the opera world and experts in the fields of dramatic arts and opera business. This exposure to such esteemed figures will not only enrich their knowledge but also inspire and motivate them, expanding their professional network in the process.

At the culmination of the program, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their skills in two performances which will be open to the public. This includes a complete performance of their chosen opera and a concert of selections called 'Death by Aria.' These performances are not just a culmination of your learning journey, but also a chance to shine on stage and share your passion for opera with a live audience.

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A Typical Day

​A typical day at SAS Opera ROLE Summer 2025

    9:30am – 10:00am Morning Breakout for Faculty

    10:00am-11:00am - Beginning Italian Language Class

    11:00 – 12:30 - Recitative Study

   12:30 – 12:45 - Break

    12:45pm - 2:00pm - Individual Coaching/Masterclass

    2:00pm-3:00pm - Lunch Break

    3:00pm-7:00pm - Rehearsal for concert/opera

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Faculty and Masterclasses*

Our faculty will guide the performers through unique linguistic, dramatic, and musical learning opportunities, providing a comprehensive understanding of the preparation for a complete opera performance.
The faculty, with a combined experience of over 50 years, will include the founder, artistic director, and coach, Stephen Scovasso, who will offer acting sessions and character development. Renowned Opera Music Directors and coaches and collaborative pianists Mary Pinto, Jon Audric Nelson, and Eric Malson will support the participants in our program's musical aspects. The performances will be directed by Stephen Scovasso and Deborah Surdi.

Enhance your artistic skills with the mentorship of esteemed professionals, including the legendary Metropolitan Opera artist Isola Jones, internationally acclaimed Mezzo-Soprano and faculty member at Indiana University KS Tichina Vaughn, Career Consultant Deborah Surdi (former executive director of the Opera Orchestra of New York and the Martina Arroyo Foundation, and  Encompass Opera), soprano Janice Hall (New York City Opera, Vienna State Opera, Salzburg Festival), and Soprano and educator Karen Driscoll Head of Artistic Operations/Opera, Assistant Teaching Professor of Voice at John J. Cali School of Music and Soprano Monica Camafreita will be here to discuss how to navigate an operatic career.

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PRICE

Summer Opera Workshop: $700.00 (Housing and meals not included).

There is no application fee for this program.

Payment plans available.

Limited Scholarships available

Age requirement: 18+ 

Application deadline is April 30, 2025

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For more information: (646) 858-9918