February, 11th 2025 – International Opera Foundation and SigmArt are proud to announce an inspiring new partnership to launch the “Rising Stars Academy”. This innovative initiative is designed to bridge the gap between emerging opera singers and an elite network of global opera professionals, providing them with the essential tools, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive in today’s competitive operatic landscape.
The “Rising Stars Academy” will cultivate a dynamic operatic ecosystem where young artists can flourish, receiving personalized advice and support as they explore diverse career paths in the arts. Key highlights of this Global Academy program include world-class masterclasses held at international music venues, live-streamed and available on-demand on the SigmArt platform for a wider audience. These offerings are tailored to elevate participants' artistic, professional, and personal growth.
Opening doors and opportunities has always been a priority for theInternational Opera Foundation, already active in education with masterclasses, staged production of opera masterpieces like La Boheme and summer opera programs with renowned festivals like Festival of Morelia in Mexico. The Partnership of the two organizations will allow young artists to access best-in-class masterclasses in person and online, building key connections in the industry fostering cultural exchange and creative excellence.
Program Highlights:
Master classes and Auditions with Leading Agents: Featuring industry stalwarts such as Priscilla Baglioni (PB Music) and Vasco Fracanzani (InArt).
Exclusive Coaching Sessions: Renowned professional coaches like Nelson Calzi (Teatro alla Scala di Milano), DanielleOrlando (coach at Metropolitan opera and Vocal institute of Art Philadelphia), Luis Ledesma (Vocal institute of Art Philadelphia), Sonia Mazar (Jerusalem opera festival and professor at Hebrew University) will lead intensive two-day sessions.
Opera Stars in Action: A three-day masterclass with celebrated artists like Marco Boemi (Conductor), Fabio Armiliato (Tenor) and others.
Cultural Branding and PR Expertise: A specialized session with Olivia Kehler CEO of agency Lark in the Oak.
Well-being Workshops: Guidance on managing expectations and performance anxieties with Daria Rybak and Marija Jelić.
Entrepreneurship in Opera and Culture: Marija Jelic offers insights on cultural innovation, sustainability and business dynamics in the Music and Opera Industry.
Auditions with Opera Directors: An exceptional chance to connect with the most influential leaders in the world of opera and classical music in 3 days workshop with Angelo Taddeo Artistic Director at Puccini festival Torre del Lago, Augusto Techera Director at Maestranza theatre in Spain and Marcelo Perez Pose Director of America Iber Musica.
A Shared Vision for Artistic Excellence This collaboration between International Opera Foundation & SigmArt underscores a shared vision: to inspire and equip the next generation of opera and Music stars with the expertise, confidence, and resilience they need to shine on the global stage.
About SigmArt
SigmArt is transforming the way people connect with arts and culture. By bringing together Theatre, Arts, Music centres, Museums, and Cultural venues with new audiences, the stunning new service creates a seamless platform for enjoying high-quality content. With a vast range of offerings from internationally awarded theatres, music venues, artists and cultural centres, both live and on-demand.
About International Opera Foundation
The International Opera Foundation is the result of the vision of opera soloist Marija Jelić, who conceived this project with the aim of bringing a new shine to the opera scene, both through productions and educational programs. The mission of the International Opera Foundation is to support and develop young talents in the field of opera, providing them with opportunities for professional development and artistic growth.
For media inquiries and further details about the “Rising Stars Academy” please contact:
International Opera Foundation
Marija Jelic
e-mail: info@internationaloperafoundation.com
SigmArt
Luca Caserta
e-mail: info@sigmart.net