Who Are the Filene Young Artists?Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about participants in the Filene Young Artists program.

How many Filene Young Artists are engaged each summer?

• 15-20

Is there an age limit?

• No. But there is a chronological component. Keep reading.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for this program?

• Most successful candidates are currently enrolled in a graduate or professional degree program, or not more than 2-3 years past completion of academic training and full-time young artist program work.
• If you are just beginning graduate study, or haven’t done any of the paid young artist residency programs, it’s probably too early for you to qualify.
• If it has been more than 3 years since you were last involved in an academic or fulltime young artist program, you have probably moved beyond the reach of our program.

What does WTOC look for when choosing singers for its program?

• Readiness to perform carefully selected solo roles in original languages: singers must have the stamina for full-length roles with orchestra as well as considerable fluency in singing the basic operatic languages.
• Evidence of secure technique and solid training: If you are still solving basic technical problems that are critical to your mastery of repertoire in your Fach, then you are not a prime candidate.
• Distinctive vocal quality and high level of personal artistry: we are looking for singers who have a basic instrument that is well-suited to a career in opera and who build on that foundation to present themselves as compelling and thoughtful artists.
• Perceived career potential: a tough one, but best described as the intersection of those factors listed above.

Stipend, Housing & Transportation

• All Filene Young Artists receive a bi-weekly stipend.
• Although housing expenses are not included in the compensation package, Wolf Trap Opera assists all Filene Young Artists and Fellows in locating housing with volunteer housing hosts within reasonable commuting distance. The average housing situation is located 5-10 miles away from our rehearsal and performance facilities. Wolf Trap is unable to assume responsibility for housing spouses, partners, or pets.
• Public transportation does not serve the Wolf Trap Opera rehearsal or performance facilities. All artists are responsible for their own local transportation, which typically means bringing or renting a car.