What exactly is a Young Artist Programme, and why do they matter so much to the future of opera? Host Rachel Nicholls – acclaimed soprano and NOS coach – is joined by two leading figures in the opera world: Eric Melear, Artistic Director of the National Opera Studio, and Laura Canning, General Director and CEO of Opera North. Together, they unpack the world of Young Artist Programmes (YAPs) and cover:

• What defines a YAP and how it differs from postgraduate study or pay-to-sing schemes.
• Why the term “Young Artist” matters.
• How these programmes have evolved internationally over the past few decades.
• What singers should consider when choosing a YAP, from financial structures to cultural contexts.
• How institutions prepare young artists to launch their professional careers on the operatic stage.

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