For 31 years the New Zealand Opera School has been focused on its mission and supporting the development of young singers across New Zealand. Every year, up to 22 students gather in the historic buildings of Whanganui Collegiate School with internationally renowned tutors for an intensive two weeks of study and performance, both at the School and in Whanganui’s arts and recreational venues.
We bring tutors of international acclaim to New Zealand and mirror the approach of international conservatoires with an intensive programme of study and performance. Alongside NZ’s best coaches, pianists practitioners we create a well-rounded programme that meets the needs of students and an evolving industry.
Hear what our alumni have to say about their experience at the Opera School…
“The school provides a valuable launchpad for New Zealand singers to begin their journey towards an overseas study/career experience like myself, and I’ve been using the performance skills I gained during my time at the NZOS every day during my studies!”
Maeve Herd, soprano, studying at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester
“Thank you for the support and guidance you’ve given me across many years. I think back to the musician I was when I first came to the Opera School, and I now think I’m an artist an order of magnitude greater than I was back then. And I know the tutelage of the Opera School is a large part of that.”
Ben Kubiak, pianist, studying the prestigious ‘Opera Course’ at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama
The NZOS curriculum comprises:
01. Individual voice lessons
02. Masterclasses
03. Foreign language & pronunciation skills
04. Exercise & movement classes
05. Stage direction
06. Mentoring & professional development
07. Public & school performances