PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS
Opera Seme is an intensive immersion experience intended to push the boundaries and provide a safe space to explore outside of one's comfort zone. By working with international artists and learning a variety of techniques, artists can expect to strengthen the mind-body connection, better understand their instruments, and get the chance to perform an entire role in Italian.
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All artists are expected to arrive in Arezzo with their music learned. It is highly recommended that singers arrive completely off book.
OUR MISSION
Opera Seme strives to give singers and pianists an immersive Italian experience through language study, cultural exploration, lessons, coachings, masterclasses, special topics workshops, and performances.
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Opera Seme is hosted by Spazio Seme International Artistic Center located in Arezzo, Italy.
ABOUT AREZZO
The deep artistic history of Arezzo, its optimal location between Florence and Rome, and the small size of the intimate city make it a perfect spot for those that want an authentic study abroad experience in Italy. Located in picturesque southeastern Tuscany, the city boasts a wide range of sites to see including fortresses, monuments, churches, museums, theaters, and ancient Roman and Etruscan archeological ruins.​
2026 FACULTY
Dr. Matthew Schloneger, East Texas A&M University
Dr. Alison Trainer, Boston University
Mario Cassi, International Opera Singer
Billie Jo Miller, Carnegie Mellon University
Valerie Dueck, Collaborative Pianist & Coach
Lorenzo Magi, Collaborative Pianist & Coach
Gianni Santucci, Stage Director, International Artist
Virginia Guidi, International Artist
Jon Kellam, Stage Director, Founder of SUPERDRAMA™
2026 GUEST FACULTY
Blythe Gaissert, International Opera Singer
PAST FACULTY
Dr. Tracelyn Gesteland, University of South Dakota | Djordje Nesic, Manhattan School of Music | Paula Gelpi, Chicago Opera Theatre | Claire Singher, Opernhaus Zürich | Dr. Ana Flavia Zuim, new York University, Hamilton | Dr. Jen Stephenson, Baylor University, Music On Site | Dr. Martha Guth, Ithaca College, Sparks & Wiry Cries, SongFest | Eva Mei, International Opera Singer | Rafael Gordillo, Opernhaus Zürich | Dr. Joshua May | Whittaker Locke | Dr. J. Bradley Baker | Lauren Koszyk
Testimonials
Opera Seme was a well-needed push in the right direction. This was my first glance at what the professional world could look like, and it was amazing to be able to put together such amazing performances.
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Cadie Logston
Soprano, Summer 2025
Program Cost & Details
Program Dates
June 27 - July 26, 2026
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Travel
Arrival in Arezzo: Saturday, June 27
Depart Arezzo: Sunday, July 26
Travel Assistance* to and from Rome: Arrive in Rome Friday, June 26; depart Rome Monday, July 27 or later (see Costs section for more info)
*Travel assistance with Opera Seme is highly encouraged, even if you are a seasoned European traveler.
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More info about nearby airports and travel to/from Arezzo
Lodging
Le Gagliarde. Located in the historical city center about 15 minutes walk from the Arezzo train station, and 8 minutes walk to Piazza Grande.
Terra d'Arezzo. Located in the historical city center about 10 minutes walk from the Arezzo train station, and 3 minutes walk to Piazza Grande.
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Costs
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Opera program: $5900
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Includes all musical activities, production costs, Italian classes, lodging in Arezzo, dinner 4 nights per week, and 2 weekend excursions
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Optional round-trip group travel from Rome to Arezzo: $200 one way, $400 round-trip
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Includes overnight hotel stays in Rome June 26 and July 26
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Optional additional weekend excursion to see an opera: $225 (includes round-trip travel, opera ticket, hotel, and dinner)
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Airfare not included
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Collaborative Pianist program: $1500
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2026 Mainstage Performances
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Così fan tutte by W.A. Mozart
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Il Parnaso confuso by C.W Gluck
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La canterina by Joseph Haydn
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Audition Requirements
Opera Seme auditions are completely virtual. There is no application fee.
Process for European auditions coming soon!
Singer Requested Materials:
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Performance Resume
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Performance Headshot
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2 References
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Complete Repertoire List
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2-3 representative video recordings. Not all recordings must be arias; art songs are accepted. If available, please include one musical theatre or jazz selection
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Collaborative Pianist-Coach Requested Materials:
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Performance Resume
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Performance Headshot
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2 References
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1-2 Video performance(s) of a solo piano work
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1-2 Video performances of work with a singer​
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Application Requirements
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Priority application deadline EXTENDED: February 1, 2026
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Final acceptance and deposit deadline: February 16, 2026
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Payment deadlines:
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$2,000 deposit due February 16, 2026 (50% refundable until March 30)
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$2,000 installment due March 30, 2026 (non-refundable after March 30)
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Remaining balance due June 1, 2026
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