Pro Corda Plus Opera

Course Content

Pro Corda Plus: Opera provides the a truly unique artistic experience in the October half-term.

Together with preparing and starring in the final opera performance, participants will receive specialist classes in dance, composition and solo and ensemble instrumental tuition.
All participants will prepare and perform in a fully staged production of Humperdinck's HANSEL AND GRETEL in Pro Corda's medieval Barn theatre. The rehearsals and production are directed by Susan Singh.

• Composition Sessions combine instrumental coaching with creating incidental music to be incorporated into the production.
• Technical Theatre Sessions will teach participants about set, lighting and costume design.
• Participants will get to design and make the sets, props and costumes.
• Choreography Sessions will prepare all aspects of movement for the final production.
• Nightly House Concerts in the Recital Hall form an informal for all to perform as nstrumentalists and singers.
• Fun Packed Recreational Activities organised by Pro Corda pastoral staff.
• Accommodation is in the 22 bedroom Abbey Farm House and neighbouring Guesten Lodge. Meals are served in the Guesten Hall.
• Production DVD produced for all participants.

Each young person was lifted above the ordinary to taste, share and become the extraordinary. The Pro Corda team clearly had the vision to achieve this" - Arthur McDonald, Steiner Foundation

Principle Tutors for Pro Corda Plus:

Opera Susan Singh (Director) has directed child performers at English National Opera for many years. She is responsible for auditioning and training those who go on to be child stars in internationally acclaimed productions. Susan is recognised as the country's leading opera trainer for children.

Anita Strevens (Choreographer) is one of the country's leading Dalcroze Eurhythmics (Music & Movement) teachers. Anita is a cellist and plays with the Phantom of the Opera Orchestra in the West End.

David Parker is a West End set designer. He designs sets for a number of touring opera companies. David gives regular education workshops.

Andrew Quartermain (Instrumental & Composition) is a concert pianist, composer and Pro Corda's Chief Executive and Artistic Director. Andrew teaches at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Guy Hopkins (Production's Musical Director) was Director of Music at Westminster School for 10 years. He is an acclaimed opera conductor and has worked with most of the country's major opera companies.