ABOUT THE PROGRAM 

The goal of Opera Queensland’s Young Artist Program is to nurture talented emerging artists through training and performance opportunities in preparation for successful careers on the world stage. 

The program offers a flexible, part-time 12-24 month training program for singers, composers, pianists, designers, and directors. Individually tailored to each artist’s needs, the program provides coaching, mentoring and performance opportunities. Young Artists may also participate in Opera Queensland productions as performers in leading, supporting, understudy and ensemble roles, and as directors, composers and repetiteurs. 

Throughout the program, Young Artists can draw upon the globally renowned talent at the state opera company, including guest coaches, conductors and mainstage artists, through lessons, workshops, masterclasses, language study and professional development opportunities. 

Past Opera Queensland Young Artist alumni include Xenia Puskarz Thomas, Nina Korbe, Kate Miller-Heidke, Kanen Breen, Kiandra Howarth, Mariana Hong, Sian Sharp, Virgilio Marino and Hayley Sugars. 

Participants in the Opera Queensland Young Artist Program have performed with Royal Opera Covent Garden, New York Metropolitan Opera, Berlin Philharmonic, Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, Komische Oper Berlin, Oper Leipzig, English National Opera, Finnish National Opera, New Zealand Opera, Opera Australia, West Australian Opera, Victorian Opera, State Opera South Australia, Pinchgut Opera, and all major Australian symphony orchestras. 

In addition, alumni have received Helpmann Awards and Green Room Awards, earned ARIA Award nominations, released recordings on ABC Classics, and appeared at Coachella and Eurovision.