Program Philosophy

Our summer programs provide emerging artists with immersive, hands-on experience in operatic performance. Unlike traditional academic settings, participants work daily with professional orchestras, learning to navigate the unique demands of the operatic stage.

Each track is designed to develop not just technical skills, but the collaborative artistry essential to opera. Whether you're a singer, conductor, or coach, you'll work alongside fellow artists in an environment that mirrors professional opera production.

Sing with Orchestra

Experience the thrill of performing operatic repertoire with a full professional orchestra. This track is designed for singers ready to take their artistry to the next level.

What You'll Experience

  • Daily rehearsals with professional orchestra
  • Full staging with professional direction
  • Principal and ensemble role opportunities
  • Master classes with renowned opera singers
  • Language and diction coaching
  • Multiple public performance opportunities

Ideal Candidates

  • Graduate-level or professional singers
  • Young Artist Program participants
  • Singers seeking orchestra experience
Apply for This Track
Singer performing with orchestra at Bach-Millennium Music
Conductor leading the orchestra at Bach-Millennium Music

Conduct Opera

Lead rehearsals and performances with professional musicians. Develop your technique, interpretation, and the leadership skills essential to operatic conducting.

What You'll Experience

  • Podium time with professional orchestra
  • Rehearsal and performance conducting opportunities
  • Score study and analysis sessions
  • Working with professional singers
  • Mentorship from established opera conductors
  • Orchestra management and communication skills

Ideal Candidates

  • Conducting students and emerging conductors
  • Musicians transitioning to conducting
  • Conductors seeking opera-specific training
Apply for This Track

Coach Opera

Refine your skills in vocal coaching, language diction, and musical preparation. Work directly with singers and conductors in a collaborative production environment.

What You'll Experience

  • One-on-one coaching sessions with singers
  • Language and diction instruction
  • Musical preparation and rehearsal accompaniment
  • Collaboration with conductors on interpretation
  • Master classes on coaching technique
  • Performance practice and audition preparation skills

Ideal Candidates

  • Collaborative pianists and répétiteurs
  • Pianists seeking opera coaching experience
  • Language specialists interested in opera
Apply for This Track
Vocal coach working with singers at Bach-Millennium Music

Program Information

Schedule

The summer program runs for approximately three weeks, with daily rehearsals, coaching sessions, and master classes. Participants should expect a demanding but rewarding schedule that mirrors professional opera production timelines.

Repertoire

Each season features a main-stage opera production along with concert performances. The 2026 season will feature Mozart's Die Zauberflöte, offering diverse roles for all voice types and rich musical material for conductors and coaches.

Location

Programs take place in the San Francisco Bay Area, with access to world-class venues and the vibrant cultural community of Northern California.