FAU Opera in Italy

Program Dates: May 17th - June 17th, 2025

(Must be 18 by the time of the program)

Spend a month with FAU Opera Theatre faculty in a captivating port city along the Italian Riviera, refining your musical skills or deepening your music appreciation. This faculty-led education abroad program is open to all students and is perfect for voice students or non-music majors seeking general education/elective course credit while studying abroad. Voice students will train with scholars from the USA and Europe, participate in expert-led workshops, sing in multiple concerts throughout the region, and attend classes in collaboration with the Giacomo Puccini Conservatory. The conservatory will still be in session, so this program offers a unique opportunity to train simultaneously with Italian students. For students seeking general education/elective credits in Music Appreciation, your journey will encompass daily classes, the chance to observe singing master classes, and engagement in cultural events across La Spezia, Florence, and Verona. The program allows ample free time for students to discover places like Cinque Terre, Pisa, Genoa, Lucca, and more at their own pace. The program culminates with a visit to the historic Arena di Verona to experience an opera performance.

The singing courses, led by Dr. Mitchell Hutchings, cater perfectly to emerging vocalists looking to solidify their foundational techniques. This intensive education abroad training program delivers specialized instruction in Italian song literature, operatic literature, and staged scenes selected according to the individual needs and abilities of the student. Public performance opportunities include concerts of operatic and/or song literature. The highest standards are sought in a nurturing and supportive environment, allowing participants to leave La Spezia with new skills and elevated poise and confidence.