History
In 1953, a program began that would change the face of opera training in the United States. Kurt Herbert Adler, San Francisco Opera's second General Director, dared to dream of a training program unlike any other for aspiring operatic professionals, one that did not force these budding singers to go to Europe to hone their craft. This program would serve as a living memorial to his predecessor, Gaetano Merola, who had been an ardent supporter of young singers. Since then, the Merola Opera Program has blossomed into an internationally respected model for building solid careers in opera, with a proven balance of training, performance and individualized support. From a four-week program with only 14 singers, mostly from the Western United States, it has grown to an 12-week program which fosters and challenges 21 singers, four apprentice coaches and one apprentice stage director from countries round the world each year.
Specialties
Each summer, San Francisco becomes a place where dreams come true for the young artists in the Merola Opera Program. Out of hundreds of young hopefuls who audition, approximately 20 singers, four apprentice coaches and one apprentice stage director are chosen to participate in the Program. Merola is dedicated to seeking out the finest young opera talent and helping them develop into professional artists of the highest caliber. The Merola Opera Program offers training in: *Musical style and interpretation *Role preparation *Movement and acting *Accompaniment and conducting *Languages and diction *Breath work