Apply
Applications for 2026 closed.
In 2026, the Chautauqua Opera Conservatory will enroll twenty-five students, all of whom will a full scholarship, covering the cost of tuition, room, and meals.
Chautauqua welcomes applications from talented students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin or religious background. Admission is by application and audition, and all enrolled students must attend the entire program.
Admission decisions for the Opera Conservatory are made by December 1.
AUDITIONS:
Live auditions on October 17 and 19 at Opera America NYC.
Application with pre-screening videos is required to be invited to audition live at Opera America.
Applicants invited to audition live at Opera America will be notified no later than September 26. Those unable to travel to New York for a live audition will have an opportunity to appeal for a virtual audition.
Contact Information
Sam Minardi-Lopez
Manager of Student Services & Arts Education Business Coordinator
716-357-6234
sminardi@chq.org
Sarah Malinoski
Director, Chautauqua Schools of Performing and Visual Arts
716-357-6233
smalinoski@chq.org
Chautauqua Festival Schools of Performing and Visual Arts
P.O. Box 1098
1 Ames Ave.
Chautauqua, NY 14722
General Instructions
Please read the specific requirements carefully and complete the online application in its entirety.
Scholarships are awarded only to students enrolled for and who will participate fully in the entire term of any program at Chautauqua.
Applicants must be enrolled in or recently graduated from music studies (undergraduate, graduate or doctoral) or training programs at the time of application.
Instructions for Auditions
All applicants must submit a complete application through SlideRoom (above) by September 15th to be considered for an invitation to audition live.
We prefer that you upload one YouTube link to your prescreening video with your application, which should include 3-4 selections of repertoire totaling 8 minutes or less. If you are unable to combine your recordings into one video, you may upload separate links. Your video privacy should be set to unlisted.
One of your selections must be an aria.
One of your selections must be sung in English.
We do not have any further repertoire requirements or guidelines.