Youth Opera Studio
Auditions for the 2026-2027 school year
are open for registration!
Youth Opera Studio Schedule
Meets twice per month on Mondays from 6:30-8:30PM at the Minnesota Opera Center.
620 N First Street
Minneapolis 55401
Upcoming Information Meeting
Learn more about the 2026-2027 Youth Opera Studio program! Prospective students, families, and educators are invited to attend.
Tuesday, July 28
6:30-7:30PM
Location:
Minnesota Opera Center
620 N 1st Street
Minneapolis 55401
Can’t make it?
Register anyway to receive the information packet.
Not able to register in advance?
No worries! Drop-ins are welcome.
About Auditions
How do I sign up?
When are auditions?
Wednesday, August 12 6:00-8:30PM
Saturday, August 15 2:00-4:30PM
Where are auditions?
Bemis Hall at the Minnesota Opera Center
620 N 1st Street
Minneapolis 55401
Who can audition?
All high school students are invited to audition, regardless of if you have participated in Youth Opera programs in the past.
What should I prepare?
Please prepare a 30–60 second selection (16–32 bars) in any style (classical or musical theater preferred). Bring sheet music for the accompanist or a backing track on your phone or device. You may also be asked to do a vocal range check and to answer a few questions about your musical experience.
I’m a middle schooler, can I audition?
There are a limited number of spaces available for middle school students who have participated in Youth Opera programs in prior years, but we are unable to accept middle schoolers who are new to the program at this time. Check back in future years to see if you’re eligible.
Still have questions?
Contact Creative Development Program Manager Kari Heistad [email protected]
About the Program
Music Directors: Sara Sawyer, Rick Hoops, and Jared Mikach
Youth Opera Studio is a bi-weekly, school-year ensemble for high school students who are passionate about opera and vocal performance. Through focused rehearsals, masterclasses, and performance opportunities, participants strengthen their vocal technique, acting, music literacy, and ensemble skills while exploring diverse repertoire, developing professional rehearsal and audition practices, and growing as confident, expressive artists in a welcoming and supportive community.