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THE SCOOP | The COC Ensemble Studio Is Looking For Talented Pianists

Pianist Brian Cho performs with opera singer Mezzo Queen Hezumuryango at the Ensemble Studio Winter Celebrations concert in December 2023 (Photo: Karen E Reeves)
Pianist Brian Cho performs with Mezzo Queen Hezumuryango at the Ensemble Studio Winter Celebrations concert in December 2023 (Photo: Karen E Reeves)

The Canadian Opera Company’s Ensemble Studio is widely recognized as one of the opera world’s premiere professional training programs. It offers emerging artists the ability to gain the tools to launch an international career.

The opportunity is open by audition to young opera singers, and what is less widely known, to piano players too. For pianists who are contemplating a career working with vocalists, it’s an invaluable opportunity, one that current Ensemble member Brian Cho calls “life-changing”.

Ensemble Studio pianists are exposed to some of the industry’s top professionals, and work in many different aspects of opera production.

For Non-Musicians…

What is a collaborative pianist?

A collaborative pianist is, simply put, one who works with instrumentalists, singers, dancers, or other artists. That may take place one-on-one, or in ensemble settings.

What is a répétiteur?

In the world of opera, the répétiteur is much more than an accompanying pianist. The répétiteur acts as a vocal coach, and will advise singers on their performance, including corrections to phrasing and other elements.

There are key skills involved in the role that go beyond excellence in performance and interpretation, among them,

For Pianists

It’s a wonderful opportunity to gain experience working with a world class company and artists. If you’d like to apply for the opportunity, you have until the deadline of August 29.

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