World famous tenor José Cura comes to Devon to hold a masterclass with 12 lucky singers.
| Published: 24th April 2007 15:34 |
Learning from a Maestro
By Laura Joint
World famous tenor José Cura comes to Devon to hold a masterclass with 12 lucky singers.
Internationally renowned opera star José Cura will be in Devon in May, to hold a masterclass with 12 singers.
The Argentinian-born tenor, now based in Madrid, agreed to take the classes after becoming patron of professional touring company, New Devon Opera.
The opera company, based in South Devon, publicised the project in 2006 - and more than 100 singers from all over the world have applied to be selected.
That number will be whittled down to around 25 for auditions in London on 24-26 April.
José Cura will be teaching the 12 all he knows
José Cura will then choose the final 12 who will be in the masterclass in Devon on 6-7 May.
It's hoped the José Cura Opera Project will unearth a new generation of opera stars.
The public will be able to watch the classes at Jubilee Hall, Stover School, near Newton Abbot on 6 May.
Then, on 7 May, the 12 will perform mainly ensemble pieces at Stover School - in front of an audience including the Maestro himself.
The tenor will present the singer who impresses him the most with a special prize.
José Cura is in England in April and May, as he is performing in the Verdi opera, Stiffelio, at the Royal Opera House in London.
Linda Hughes, chair of New Devon Opera, says it's a real coup to bring José Cura to the county.
"This really puts Devon on the map," Linda told BBC Devon. "People from all over the world have taken an interest in this."
New Devon Opera's The Barber of Seville, 2006
Linda hopes that the event can be repeated in the future - but on an even bigger scale.
New Devon Opera was formed in 2004 and auditions for performers locally and nationally. It is a not-for-profit charity.
In a classic case of 'if you don't ask, you don't get,' Linda approached José Cura about the role of patron.
"I was speaking to him at the Royal Opera House and I asked him. And he said yes!".
The José Cura Opera Project:
José Cura Masterclass with opera singers
Sunday 6 May 2007, 6pm - 9.30pm
Stover School, near Newton Abbot
Tickets: £25 (reserved), £18 (unreserved), £15 (concessions)
Gala garden party - arias and ensembles by the masterclass singers
Strawberry cream tea and sparkling wine
Monday 7 May, 2pm - 5pm
Tickets: £18 (concessions £15)
Box Office: 01803 839530
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