Rachel Barker of Bristol recently participated in the CoOPERAtive Program, an opera training program at Westminster Choir College of Rider University in Princeton, N.J. She was one of 28 singers selected from hundreds from around the world who auditioned for the program.
Presented by professionals in the field of opera, the CoOPERAtive Program helps young singers prepare for acceptance into an advanced young artist or summer apprentice program. It is distinguished by its personal approach to developing a customized program for each singer. The faculty assess the strengths of each participant, nurture each singer's talents and assist in her skill development.
The three-week intensive program includes private coaching focusing on operatic style, performance techniques, dramatic presentation, language and diction, body awareness, and resume and application advice. Rachel's schedule included private coaching sessions, classes and master classes with some of the country's leading conductors, stage directors, yoga and breath management specialists, as well as experts in the field of music business.
The CoOPERAtive Program is directed by Westminster Choir College faculty members Laura Brooks Rice and Christopher Arneson. Sheri Greenawald of the San Francisco Opera's Merola Opera Program has said of the CoOPERAtive Program, "This isn't a recreational program...this is the real deal, where students will work hard and grow toward their goal, under the guidance of professionals who care."
To learn more about the CoOPERAtive Program go to www.rider.edu/cooperative or call (609) 924-7416.
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