Hello!

I am a young, aspiring opera singer, and building a career in opera is both highly competitive and very expensive. In order to gain performance experience and build a professional résumé, most young singers must apply to training programs and competitions designed for early-career artists. 

Even applying is costly. Application fees typically range from $50 to $200 per program. These fees only allow you to submit an application — they do not guarantee that your materials will be reviewed or that you will be accepted. In addition, applicants must submit professional video recordings (“self-tapes”), which cost around $300 to produce. If accepted, many programs then require tuition fees of approximately $2,000, not including travel, housing, or other living expenses, which often involve traveling long distances or abroad. So far, I am doing a program in New York City at Opera America that is $1700. I am planning to do a program abroad in Europe that would roughly cost $4350.

Because of these unavoidable costs, I am hoping to raise $4,500 by this fall to help cover applications, recording expenses, possible tuition, and travel for programs and competitions this season or next.

Any contribution, no matter the size, will directly support my training and help me pursue professional opportunities in opera. These opportunities wouldn’t be possible without support, and your generosity directly helps open doors to professional stages. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference in my journey. Thank you for believing in me and my future in opera.

Warmly,

Celina Randazzo