SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 22, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bay Area youth have a chance to have the cultural experience of a lifetime: singing opera in Italy, opera’s birthplace. The San Francisco Opera Guild plans the trip as part of its “Opera Scouts” program, a cultural and performing arts program for youth that provides individual artist training in a supportive ensemble structure.
“Our Opera Scouts program transforms the lives of students by offering practical training and rich experiences that foster greater commitment and compassion, while honing communication, leadership and critical thinking skills,” said Caroline Altman, the Guild’s creative director. “We’re thrilled to travel to Italy as the culmination of our Year of Cultural Understanding – a theme that will underpin all our programs and events this year as we help Bay Area students learn about how art can connect us socially, emotionally, and even politically.”
The Guild will select 18 Opera Scouts to explore Italy in April, 2018. In addition to performing there, participants will attend operas and concerts and visit museums and attractions in Venice, Florence and Rome. They’ll have invaluable opportunities to learn about opera’s rich history while forming new connections with Italian students.
The Opera Scouts program accepts youth with a variety of vocal expertise and experience. “Students need only be passionate about the art form, invested in their growth as artists, and curious about the world beyond their front doors,” Altman said. Several scholarships are available.
Opera Scouts meet weekly from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays during September through June. In addition to these weekly meetings, scouts participate in other outings and events. Meetings take place at 42nd Street Moon, 250 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, and at other local venues. Scouts must attend at least two meetings per month to maintain good standing.
Activities include master classes with resident and guest artists, individual artistic projects to earn merit badges and attending San Francisco Opera dress rehearsals and performances at other Bay Area music and theater companies. Opera Scouts also have singing opportunities in recitals, showcases and community events.
Students from 12 to 18 years old may apply for Opera Scouts. The Guild is accepting applications and audition videos until September 15. More information and application forms are available online at sfopera.com/operascouts.
About San Francisco Opera Guild
San Francisco Opera Guild believes the life lessons drawn from creative expression are the foundation of confidence and integrity. Since 1939, we have funded and developed award- winning outreach and education programs that extend the impact of opera, bringing it center stage in the life of the community. San Francisco Opera Guild’s education fund ensures the continuation of educational programs that help students find their voices. Every year, more than 50,000 students in nearly 200 schools throughout northern California get the benefits of arts education, as only opera can deliver.