New Operatic Resident Artist Program

The most impactful learning is accomplished when artists have dedicated time to solely focus on their craft with the support and guidance of seasoned professionals. Inspired by this, Guild Hall is expanding its ongoing partnership with Bel Canto Boot Camp (BCBC) with a residency program that will support an emerging generation of opera singers while bringing operatic performances and community engagement programs to the East End.

The Guild Hall & Bel Canto Boot Camp Resident Artist Program will award paid week-long residencies to emerging artists identified by an application and audition process. The program will offer singers individualized training with BCBC coaches, providing time and space for role preparation and scene study on site in East Hampton. Guest artists at the height of international singing careers are invited to join resident artists as both mentors in masterclasses and colleagues in concerts— a unique training and performance collaboration between operatic superstars, established professional singers, and promising singers still on the verge of an international career.

Baritenor Michael Spyres and tenor Jack Swanson join Bel Canto Boot Camp at Guild Hall for the 2022 launch season. Soprano Lisette Oropesa is slated for August 2023.

By inviting audiences into select rehearsals and master classes, Guild Hall and BCBC will provide an insider’s view into the singer’s process — affirming an ever-increasing love and appreciation for the finesse and power of the unamplified voice. Resident artists will engage with the Guild Hall Teen Arts Council, among other education and arts organizations in the communities of the Hamptons. Bel Canto Boot Camp will offer audience education events before recitals and as separate events.

Auditions have been announced for this season’s summer and fall residencies. Information can be found at belcantobootcamp.com/residencyauditions. In line with Guild Hall and BCBC’s priorities of inclusivity and equity, no cost is incurred to the auditionee to apply or audition, and virtual options are on offer for singers not based in New York.

On Friday, May 20, at 7 p.m., Guild Hall and Bel Canto Boot Camp’s Resident Artist Series kicks off with “Beautiful Singing: The Roots and Fruits of the Bel Canto Style” featuring tenor Jack Swanson, soprano Katherine Henly, and BCBC’s Rachelle Jonck and Derrick Goff at the piano, in a program of opera, film, musical theater and song.

Additional programs include “The Potions of Love: Bel Canto Arias and Ensembles” on Saturday, July 30, at 7 p.m. and “Michael Spyres & Bel Canto Boot Camp: A Bel Canto Journey” on Saturday, October 15, at 7 p.m.

Recitals are $55 ($49.50 for Guild Hall members). Reservations can be made at guildhall.org.