Lea Ann wrote:
> Doesn't sound very approachable does it? It seems strange to me that all the principle roles are auditioned for in New York. Seems like he people here in the Midwest part of the US should support talent here in the Midwest. Hmmm anyway I am glad to know that other cities support local people. I think that's very important. >
I don't want to give the impression that the Washington opera casts principal roles from its local chorus auditions. However, since Placido Domingo has been director of the company, TWO has had a practice of using a cadre of locally-based singers in comprimario roles. And some of these singers get cast in prominent or even principal roles in the smaller (non-star-studded) productions. And I've seen regular chorus members be cast in the smallest comprimario roles, as well.
Now, there is a lot of competition for the Washington Opera chorus, especially for sopranos. And due to union contract requirements for a percentage of existing chorus members to be retained every year, only so many openings are available each year. But I think most serious opera-type singers in this area know personally one or more people who sing in the Washington Opera chorus, as I do.
Peggy
-- Margaret Harrison, Alexandria, Virginia, USA "Music for a While Shall All Your Cares Beguile" mailto:peggyh@i...
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