SHAPING THE VOICES OF OPERA'S NEXT GENERATION
Applications are now open for the National Youth Opera Academy (NYOA), taking place July 29-August 8, 2026, in Santa Fe. In collaboration with The Young Voices of The Santa Fe Opera, NYOA invites aspiring vocalists (ages 13-18) from across the United States to prepare and perform a fully staged opera with orchestra. This immersive program is designed to expand artistic skill, inspire growth, and equip students for the next phase of their development.
Throughout the academy, participants learn and train in a setting that mirrors the professional world, while offering the guidance, support, and mentorship of an educational environment. Distinguished artists from The Metropolitan Opera, Santa Fe Opera, and other major institutions foster a community that cultivates the artistry and collaboration required to bring an opera to life—this summer, Ben Moore's Oddysey. Set in one of the industry's most vibrant cities, NYOA promises an extraordinary experience on and off the stage!
1. Perform: Take the stage for a fully produced youth opera with orchestra.
2. Learn: Train with leading artists from The Metropolitan Opera, The Santa Fe Opera, and more.
3. Immerse: Experience a backstage tour, performance, and insider conversations at the Santa Fe Opera.
4. Cultivate: Build skills through vocal masterclasses and workshops in auditioning, acting, mental wellness, financial literacy, and marketing.
5. Expand: Deepen craftsmanship through specialized fellowships in conducting, collaborative piano, stage management, and directing.
6. Master: Emerge confident, stage-ready, and enriched with the knowledge to launch the next steps of your career.
The NYOA faculty comprises active, working professionals who bring real-world insight and connections to every part of the program. From career mentorship to college advising, our team supports your growth beyond the academy. Once you attend NYOA, you become part of our network in a community of artists and mentors dedicated to helping you navigate and thrive in your artistic journey.
Selected students in this program work one-on-one with our experienced leaders, gaining hands-on training and personalized guidance in specific areas of focus. NYOA fellowships are designed to develop practical skills that prepare students for success in future collegiate and professional environments.
Student accommodations are included in tuition at the Drury Plaza, one of Santa Fe’s premier hotels, located steps from the historic downtown. Ranked as Travel + Leisure’s #1 2025 U.S. destination, Santa Fe provides a vibrant backdrop for the NYOA experience, combining art, culture, and community.
For local residents who wish to commute, a day-rate tuition option is also available.
