Q. Will I have the opportunity to sing the whole role in the opera being performed?
Yes. The entire opera will be performed in its original language, with standard cuts in the recitativi and ensembles. Lyric Opera Studio Weimar uses the Bärenreiter Edition of Le Nozze di Figaro and Die Zauberflöte.
Q. Is the production with orchestra or piano?
The production is conducted, with piano and cembalo accompaniment. (Winter Session 2019 production of Die Fledermaus will be performed with chamber orchestra.)
Q. Will I be able to sing for an agent?
Yes. Each year various state (ZAV) and private agents hold auditions in Weimar exclusively for LOSW participants, as well as attend one or more of the performances. Since 2008, many singers have received offers to sing in German theaters as a direct result of their agent auditions at LOSW. (Please see ‘Where are they now’.)
Q. Are the productions multi-cast?
All roles assigned are double, triple or quadruple cast, depending on the role. Each participant is guaranteed a minimum of one performance per role assignment, provided the role assigned is adequately prepared prior to arrival in Weimar. In addition, participants are also guaranteed equal staging and coaching time as dictated by size and depth of role.
Performance cast groupings will be decided in the final production week of the program. The Faculty reserves the right to remove an individual from his/her role if the singer is not sufficiently prepared.
Q. What are the accommodations at the Studio? Will I have roommates?
Student accommodations are shared dormitory-style – in large, spacious rooms with showers and washrooms on each floor.
Q. What does “half-board” mean?
Half board is defined as two meals a day; breakfast and hot lunch (European dinner) from Monday to Friday. You are responsible for your own dinner and all meals on Sundays. There are several reasonably priced restaurants within walking distance for both take-out and eat-in meals. You can eat well for around € 10 per day in Weimar.
Q. Do I need a Visa for Germany?
If you are a member of the European Union you do not need a visa. If you are American or Canadian, and intend to visit Germany for a period not exceeding three months, you do not require a visa. If you want to extend your stay over three months you will need to apply for an extension. You can do this prior to arriving (visit your local German consulate) or when you are in Germany. If you are another nationality, please check with your local German Consulate for visa requirements.
Q. What is the language of instruction?
The primary instruction language is English, however there will be daily German language instruction for the first two weeks of each session.
More questions? Get in touch by email at info@lyricoperastudioweimar.com.