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PODCAST

The Opera Training Companion

National Opera Studio

Welcome to The Opera Training Companion from the National Opera Studio - your go-to podcast for navigating the world of opera. Join us as we bring together industry-leading experts from opera and beyond, covering every aspect of what it takes to thrive (and survive!) as an artist in the operatic world. Hosted by soprano Rachel Nicholls who has been an opera singer for 25 years and is a regular coach at the Studio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

arts performing arts

All Episodes

47:05

9. The Role of Agents in an Operatic Career

The Opera Training Companion ·

2025/12/09

What exactly does an agent do for opera singers - and when should a young artist consider working with one? In this episode of Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls sits down with Sue Spence (Director, Askonas Holt) and Katy Crompton (Assistant Artist Manager at MWA and National Opera Studio alum) to unpack the vital role of artist managers in today’s operatic world.From contract negotiations and travel logistics to long-term career building and brand development, we explore how agencies

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37:14

8. Young Artist Programmes

The Opera Training Companion ·

2025/10/28

What exactly is a Young Artist Programme, and why do they matter so much to the future of opera?Host Rachel Nicholls – acclaimed soprano and NOS coach – is joined by two leading figures in the opera world: Eric Melear, Artistic Director of the National Opera Studio, and Laura Canning, General Director and CEO of Opera North. Together, they unpack the world of Young Artist Programmes (YAPs) and cover:What defines a YAP and how it differs from postgraduate study or pay-to-sing schemes.Why the term

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54:16

7. Working abroad

The Opera Training Companion ·

2025/09/24

Host Rachel Nicholls is joined by baritone Nick Mogg (2018/19 alum), currently a member of the Solo Ensemble at the Staatsoper Hamburg, and Fiona Wells, servicing manager at Groves Artists, to explore the realities of working abroad as an opera artist.Nick shares his first hand experience of life and work in Germany—how he navigates visas, accommodation, and cultural adjustments, as well as the artistic and personal rewards of working internationally. He reflects on differences in rehearsal styles,

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53:54

BONUS: Parenting in Opera

The Opera Training Companion ·

2025/07/04

This episode explores the highs and lows of parenting in opera, from backstage breastfeeds and split-second childcare swaps, to the evolving voice, identity shifts, and emotional resilience it demands.Hosted by Hannah Sandison, singer, performance psychology consultant, and representative of SWAP’ra (Supporting Women and Parents in Opera), the roundtable features mezzo-soprano Anna Cooper, soprano Jennifer France, and tenor David Butt Philip.Together, they speak candidly about touring schedules,

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53:51

6. Vocal health

The Opera Training Companion ·

2025/05/27

In this episode of The Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls, alongside expert guests Kate Valentine (Valentine Voice Care) and ENT surgeon Declan Costello, dive into essential topics on maintaining vocal health. They explore common vocal issues singers face, the psychological and physical factors affecting the voice, and the importance of early intervention. Busting myths about vocal nodules, singing with a cold, and voice care gadgets, they also provide practical advice on building

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40:48

5. Opera Coaching

The Opera Training Companion ·

2025/02/24

In this episode of Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls is joined by Alex Ingram and Della Jones from the National Opera Studio to explore the role of coaching in opera. They discuss what it means to be a coach, how it differs from teaching or accompanying, and the unique skills required for the job, including both musical and psychological insight. The conversation covers when and how singers and pianists should seek coaching, how to make the most of a session, and tips for coaches on

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42:53

S1, Ep 4 The World of Opera Repetiteurs

The Opera Training Companion ·

2025/01/15

In this episode of The Opera Training Companion, Rachel Nicholls dives into the fascinating role of opera repetiteurs with Brenda Hurley (Royal Academy of Music) and Susanna Stranders (The Royal Opera).Discover what it takes to excel as a repetiteur—mastering both the art of playing and the psychology of rehearsals. From defining their vital role in opera companies to exploring the unique career paths and skills required, this episode offers insights for aspiring repetiteurs and music enthusiasts

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40:16

S1, Ep 3 Resilience & Elite performance coaching

The Opera Training Companion ·

2024/12/17

In this episode of the Opera Training Companion podcast, host Rachel Nicholls dives into the topic of resilience in elite performance with high-performance coach Cliodhna O’Connor. They explore the parallels between elite athletes and opera singers, discussing what resilience truly is and how to build it. Key insights include strategies for fostering resilience, the challenges performers face in high-pressure environments, and the role of mental health. The episode also addresses the unique

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43:20

S1, Ep 2 Nutrition Essentials for Singers

The Opera Training Companion ·

2024/11/13

In this episode, host Rachel Nicholls explores the vital role of nutrition for singers with guest Julie Cooper, a soprano, vocal coach, and nutritionist. They debunk myths about dairy, coffee, alcohol, and hydration, while discussing how to manage acid reflux—an issue many singers face. Julie also shares practical advice on maintaining energy, gut, and immune health while touring and performing. They wrap up by offering key tips for young singers to build a nutritional toolkit that supports both

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42:32

BONUS: Training at the National Opera Studio

The Opera Training Companion ·

2024/11/07

In this bonus episode of The Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls, an experienced opera singer and coach, is joined by two National Opera Studio alum: repetiteur Jacob Swindells (2023/24) and mezzo-soprano Joanna Harries (2022/23). They discuss what it's like to train at the National Opera Studio, from the unique audition process to the daily routines and challenges of balancing life in London. They reflect on the personal growth experienced during their time at the Studio and offer advice

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37:13

Auditions

The Opera Training Companion ·

2024/10/15

In this episode of the Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls, alongside Allyson Devenish ( Senior Coach, National Opera Studio) and casting director Sarah Playfair, dive into the essentials of auditioning in the opera world. They explore how singers can land auditions, prepare their repertoire, and make the best impression in front of casting panels. From selecting the right pieces to showcasing acting skills, the experts share practical tips on navigating the audition process. They also

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1:22

Introducing...The Opera Training Companion - Coming...

The Opera Training Companion ·

2024/10/11

Welcome to The Opera Training Companion from the National Opera Studio - your go-to podcast for navigating the world of opera.Hosted by internationally renowned soprano Rachel Nicholls, with over 25 years of experience on the stage and a principal coach at the Studio, this series brings together industry-leading experts from the world of opera and beyond.Each episode - recorded at the Studio's home in London - dives deep into what it truly takes to thrive (and survive!) as an opera artist, offering

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