Opera Conducting Institute: May 18-20, 2026 

The Opera Conducting Institute is a three-day, immersive workshop in New York City designed for emerging conductors seeking focused, hands-on experience in the operatic repertoire. Open to six active participants and a limited number of auditors, the institute emphasizes individualized instruction, practical podium time, and deep score-based study.

Each day centers on a curated selection of arias from the core operatic canon, allowing participants to explore a range of vocal styles, dramatic contexts, and technical challenges. Daily activities include:

• guided score study 

• lectures from renowned professionals on historical context 

• Italian diction training

• extended conducting lab, where each participant receives multiple podium sessions with professional singers and rehearsal pianist, culminating in conducting a chamber ensemble with a singer on the final day

• receiving expert guidance on navigating standard repertoire.

Learning topics will include:

• conducting recitativo accompagnato,

• learning vocal coaching techniques

• stylistically correct ornamentation

• collaborating effectively with singers

• advanced research and scholarship processes to better understand the score

• feedback on audition videos and application materials

• Day 1:
  Hai già vinta la causa
  E Susanna non vien… Dove sono 

• Day 2:
  Una voce poco fa
  Regnava nel silenzio 

• Day 3:
  Che gelida manina
  Mi chiamano Mimì 

The Opera Conducting Institute is ideal for students, early-career conductors, collaborative pianists in need of conducting experience, and instrumental conductors eager to learn the foundations of opera conducting who wish to refine their technique, deepen their understanding of vocal collaboration, and gain meaningful podium experience in a supportive, high-level environment.

Applicants may video record all sessions on their own devices for future use in applications/auditions.

Applications open from January 10-March 31. Notifications of acceptance to be sent out by email by April 15.

Tuition:

$1250: active participants

$450: auditor (full session)

$200: auditor (per day)

Contact us at operaconductinginstitute@gmail.com with any questions or inquiries.

Faculty

Pianist