People

The pandemic has required performing artists—from those starting out to those at the top of their game—to re-order, hustle, and pivot. The disruption’s effects on the industry have continued hitting emerging artists especially hard. In 2022, we have the benefit of supporting those artists to join us for projects crafted specifically to their strengths. In doing so, Wolf Trap Opera continues to center on both the artists and the art.

Studio Artists come from some of the best music schools in the country. Our studio program offers them time onstage—an invaluable opportunity to both perform and to observe their colleagues. This summer, Studio Artists will cover Filene Artists and sing in the ensemble in mainstage productions, and in the choruses of shows at the Barns; they will also engage with guest artists and faculty in a tailor-made curriculum.

Singers are the most visible part of any opera company, but much important work happens behind the scenes. Wolf Trap Opera’s Fellowship track provides entry-level professional experience for future leaders in directing, coaching, and conducting.

Each year, Wolf Trap Opera chooses one of its highly successful alumni to return as the Filene Artist in Residence. This master artist works with WTO’s young singers on both artistic and practical preparation for their careers. The 2023 Filene Artist in Residence is Ryan McKinny.

For 3 months every summer, industry-leading conductors, directors, designers, stage managers, artistic directors, coaches, and guest faculty gather at Wolf Trap to make great opera and mentor up-and-coming singers.

Through its unique performance-based training program, Wolf Trap Opera has contributed to the career development of over 700 emerging singers. WTO alumni can be found working in every top opera house in the U.S., and around the world.