On July 25, 2022, Opera Orlando will launch its annual training initiative for younger singers, titled “Summer Institute for the Next Generation of Singers,” or “SINGS!”

The program is a weeklong intensive meant to help students aged 15-20 who are interested in pursuing a career in classical singing. Students will receive coaching from OO staff and teaching artists on solo and ensemble repertoire, professional development with new headshots and updated resumes, acting workshops, yoga classes, vocal health seminars, vocal anatomy lessons, and more. Each student will also participate in a masterclass by Grammy Award-winning baritone Gabriel Preisser.

The intensive will culminate in a public concert, followed by a reception for the students, their parents, and the audience.

“Opera Orlando developed this program to be an informative and professional-level week of training to help high school singers navigate and prepare for college auditions, while also giving them insight into how best to build a lifelong career in classical music,” said education director Sarah Purser in an official press statement issued by the organization. “I am looking forward to the students achieving their own personal goals, improving their musicianship, and gaining the confidence needed to take their career to the next level, as well as growing together as an ensemble.”