Opera

Opera Institute Certificate

Admission Requirements

The Boston University Opera Institute is a professional training program for the serious singer preparing for an operatic career. The Institute offers an intensive program designed to provide the crucial transition between academic training and career readiness. Enrollment is limited to 12 performers who have demonstrated superior professional operatic potential. Selection is by national live audition only.

Audition Requirements

To be considered for this program, all students must submit an application and preliminary CD or tape by January 1. Selected candidates are invited to audition live only after their completed application and preliminary CD or tape have been reviewed. Please check our website for dates and scheduling information.

For CD, tape, and a live invited audition, the candidate must prepare 5 arias of contrasting styles, one of which must be in English. Inquiries may be directed to the Opera Manager at opera@bu.edu.

Program of Study

The two-year residency offers concentrated instruction in acting, Italian conversation, lyric diction, musical styles, movement, Alexander Technique, ballet, stage combat, and period styles. In addition, private voice lessons and repertoire coaching are provided weekly, along with regular master classes and professional classes with distinguished faculty and guest artists.

Annual public performances include collaboration with the Opera Workshop, Opera Theater, and the School of Theatre in two full-scale productions with orchestra in the Boston University Theatre, a Fringe Festival of one-act operas, the InCite Festival in New York City, scenes programs, and outreach activities.

Each student admitted to the program is awarded a full scholarship—covering tuition and fees—and a stipend. In the spring of the first year, a professional review will determine if individual progress warrants continuation. After completion of the second year, participants are awarded the Opera Institute Certificate.

Opera Training for Voice Performance Majors

Superior graduate voice performance majors with operatic potential form the Opera Theater and Opera Workshop, joining students from the Opera Institute in principal and ensemble roles, and in performance-based opera training, two full mainstage productions, a Fringe Festival of one-act operas, scenes, and in outreach programs.