Close on the heels of the Baltimore Symphony's first adult music camp for amateur instrumentalists (the "BSO Academy") in June at Meyerhoff Symphony Hall will come the Lyric Opera House's first "Opera Camp" for Baltimore City Public School middle-schoolers in July.
The opera camp (July 12 to August 6) will offer free scholarships for 25 middle schoolers (ages 11-13), chosen by audition.
Students will get voice and drama training, along with
sessions on movement, improvisation and the backstage world of opera (sets, costumes, lighting, etc.). Various performances and field trips are planned for the students, but the coolest project for them is likely to be an opera that they write, produce and, at the end of the camp term, perform.
In a release from the Lyric Opera House, James Harp, director of opera and education for the theater, says: "The goal of the program is to provide a greater awareness of vocal music, particularly operatic music ... We are not seeking trained operatic voices and performers, but rather talented young singers with potential who wish to learn more about singing and opera and who want to experience the possibilities of artistic expression within a disciplined framework."
Auditions for the Opera Camp will be held on April 24. To schedule an audition, call 410-685-5086, ext. 323.