Resident Artist Audition F.A.Q. Sheet

  

Who is on the audition panel?

Christopher Hahn, General Director; William Powers, Director of Administration and Artistic Operations;

Mark Trawka, Accompanist and Director of Musical Studies; Shawn Fertitta, Resident Artist Administrator

 

Is there an age limit for the Resident Artist Program of Pittsburgh Opera?

There is not an official age limit, but most of our artists are in their 20’s and early 30’s.  Singers are more likely to be granted an audition if they are about to or have recently completed formal academic training.

 

Do I need to be a US citizen to attend the program?

Pittsburgh Opera will not apply for a visa on your behalf.  If you have a current visa that will allow you to work in the United States for the full two-year program, then we encourage you to apply.

 

What if I don’t have my reference letters to mail in with my application?

Your reference letters may be mailed separately or e-mailed to Shawn Fertitta (sfertitta@pittsburghopera.org).

 

What if I need to change my audition date / time?

First, you should try to find a colleague who is willing to switch with you.  Once you have made the switch,

e-mail Shawn Fertitta (sfertitta@pittsburghopera.org) to notify her of the change.  If you can not make the switch yourself, contact Shawn Fertitta and best efforts will be made to accommodate your request.

 

How many arias will I sing?

Audition slots are 5-minutes long; one aria of your choice will be heard.  If you are called back, you will sing two arias; one of your choice but not the same selection as the first audition, followed by the panel’s choice.

 

What if I don’t know an aria in every language requested?

You should sing the arias you know and that you are comfortable singing.

 

What if I want to change my rep?

You may submit a rep change to the monitor if you are asked to sing a callback audition.

 

Is there a place to warm-up before my audition?

Warm-up space is limited depending on the location.  Please come to the audition prepared to sing.

 

How do I find out about callbacks? 

Callbacks will be posted online at http://sites.google.com/site/pittsburghoperacenter.                          

You must sing a callback audition in order to be considered for the program, no exceptions.

 

When are casting decisions made?

Decisions will be made immediately following the New York City callback auditions.  It is improbable that you will be offered a contract if you are not offered a callback audition.  Offers will be given by telephone sometime after Christmas, but no later than February 3, 2012.

 

What operas will be performed in coming seasons?

Although the official release for the 2012-2013 season is not finalized and is subject to change, Pittsburgh Opera is considering four operas, including productions like Rigoletto, Don Giovanni, La Cenerentola and Madame Butterfly.  The selection for the Resident Artist production is still being determined.

Will I receive feedback from the audition panel?

We regret that panelists will not be able to offer feedback immediately following the auditions or at anytime thereafter.