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Composing for Opera, learning an interdisciplinary artform

Composing for opera reaches far beyond music composition and when it's done well it is part of an expansive and complex matrix of disciplines, practices, and approaches. In this class we will consider dramaturgy, structure, multimedia collaborative process, composing for voice (from bel canto to neutral conversation), consider dramatic practices, opera specific methodologies and theatre practice.

Whatever your style the principles, analysis, advice and guidance I can offer will take your opera to the next level.

As the artistic director of Waste Paper Opera, I have composed, collaboratively written, and co-directed 8 large scale operas, worked on projects for film, art installation, and even performed in a swimming pool. I have experience as a director, having trained with the late Sir Graham Vick at Birmingham Opera Company and National Opera Studio. I've performed across Europe and the USA as a singer, clown, actor, and musician, most notably with Brookly-based performance group Object Collection.

Extra information

Bring something you're working on in whatever format you work in.

Location

At teacher's location: Chalk Farm Road, London, UK

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General info

Age:
Adults (18-64 years old)
Seniors (65+ years old)
Student level:
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Duration:
60 minutes
90 minutes
120 minutes
The class is taught in:English

About Me

I have a holistic and dramaturgical approach to composition. I can help to question what the work is really about, what it needs and how to take it to a level where it is honest and unique.

Sessions with me are very open ended and relaxed and yet highly productive. We will discover, analyse, experiment, and enrich your craft by embracing the multiplicity of composing for opera.

Education

PhD in Composition - University of Southampton (2024)
MMus in Composition - Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (2017)
BMus in Composition - Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (2013)

Experience / Qualifications

- 8 operas composed for, developed with and performed by Waste Paper Opera.
- Assistant Directing with Birmingham Opera Company and National Opera Studio
- Associate Lecturer in Collaborative and Collective Practice at UAL Wimbledon College of Arts

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Good-fit Instructor Guarantee


If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.

Online reputation

  • Instructor since May 2024
  • Google connected

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00) New York
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Good-fit Instructor Guarantee


If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.

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