Vancouver Opera launches new program for young artists

Vancouver Opera has launched a new program to help emerging talents make the jump from training in university to working as professionals.

Five musicians have been selected to take part in the inaugural year of the Yulanda M. Faris Young Artists Program, which kicked off September 17.

During the 26-week residency, they will receive vocal coaching, training in acting, career counseling, and guidance on how the industry works.

They will also be involved in upcoming Vancouver Opera productions of La Bohème, the Pirates of Penzance, the Magic Flute, and Tea: A Mirror of Soul, taking on mainstage or understudy roles.

A $1-million contribution to the Vancouver Opera Foundation from the family of long-time arts supporter Yulanda Faris is helping to support the program.

“This program creates a lasting legacy for future generations. I am excited to see the great work our five young artists will do this year and in the years to come," Faris said in a news release.

The inaugural participants, selected through national auditions, are baritone Aaron Durand, soprano Rachel Fenlon, pianist Michael Onwood, tenor Martin Sadd, and mezzo-soprano Sylvia Szadovszki.

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