FAQ
What is the programme structure?
Our emerging artists attend a full-time, two-year high-ability training and performance programme in opera which includes the opportunity to perform mainstage roles and covers at our main collaborating partner house, Teatro La Fenice in Venice, in addition to extensive repertoire coaching, orchestral showcases, masterclasses, enhanced opera skills training, and recitals in Florence and Venice. A full breakdown of the programme and its components can be found on our Training page.
Who can apply?
Applicants for the programme are accepted from all countries and all nationalities. We recognise that people follow a variety of paths to a classical singing career, however the upper age limit for female applicants is 27, for male applicants is 28 and for répétiteurs is 30. Applicants are expected to have already completed conservatoire or a similar level of training, and/or to have significant performance experience and a proven track record of excellence.
Do applicants need permission to work/study in the EU to apply?
There is no obligation to have permission to work or study in the EU prior to applying for the programme. If non-EEA applicants are offered a place on the programme, it is the candidate’s responsibility to apply for and obtain a study visa and permit on arrival (permesso di soggiorno) required by European law and by the Italian Public Security Authorities as appropriate for people from their country of citizenship.
What material is needed to apply?
A completed application through YAP Tracker.
What repertoire is required for the application?
Singers
Links to 2 recent video recordings (recorded within the last year) of two contrasting arias in different languages, one of which must be in Italian, and one which must include some recitative style delivery.
Répétiteurs
Links to 2 recent video recordings (recorded within the last year) of accompanying singers or a singer in one song and one operatic aria.
What does it cost to apply?
There is a €15 submission fee for applications on YAP Tracker.
Where and when are auditions held?
Online Applications:
Applications for entry in 2023 open on Monday 25 July 2022 via YAP Tracker.
The deadline for online submissions is Friday 28 October 2022.
Live Auditions:
London, UK: Sunday 13 November 2022
Florence, Italy: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December 2022
Can applicants bring a pianist, agent, family or friend?
All auditions are closed and applicants may not bring friends, relatives, singing teachers, agents or their own pianist to the audition. Members of the panel speak Italian and German as well as English.
What repertoire/material must be presented at audition?
Singers
Singers must offer three arias in different languages, one of which must be in Italian, and one which must include some recitative style delivery, as well as two songs.
Répétiteurs
Répétiteurs will need to prepare a solo piano piece or movement of approximately 5 minutes in duration and the following two opera scenes: G. Puccini, La bohème, Act I Opening to the entrance of Benoit and W. A. Mozart, Così fan tutte, Act I Scene 1. You will be asked to play while singing in the vocal lines. You will also be given some sight reading.
Who will accompany the audition?
An accompanist will be provided by Mascarade Emerging Artists. Applicants may not bring their own pianist.
What do singers need to bring for the audition?
Singers should bring sheet music for all their offered repertoire for the pianist. They should also bring two copies of a list of their arias for the panel.
What audition wear is appropriate?
Applicants should wear normal daytime audition wear; it is important to feel comfortable during your audition.
How do applicants from non-EEA countries obtain a visa to attend the audition?
Visa applications for attending auditions are not handled by Mascarade Emerging Artists. Applicants who are invited to audition and need a visa to do so can be sent a Letter of Invitation to bring to the local relevant embassy/consulate to apply for a visa. Please contact us at info@mascaradeoperastudio.it as soon as possible if this is required.
If you have a question about your application which is not answered in our FAQs, please email auditions@mascaradeoperastudio.it.
If you require technical support with your YAP Tracker application, please email help@yaptracker.com.