Opera North
As a student at Leeds Conservatoire, you have access to a range of opportunities and initiatives with Opera North, the region’s leading opera company.
About Our Partnership With Opera North
The partnership between Leeds Conservatoire and Opera North began in 2019 to bring together the region’s leading opera company and the region’s leading conservatoire to support the next generation of performers.
The partnership enhances the conservatoire’s student experience and contributes to the city’s collaborative cultural activity.
Free Tickets to Opera North Performances
As a benefit of our partnership with Opera North, we have a limited number of free tickets available for students to watch a dress rehearsal of an opera.
Rehearsal Observations – Chorus and Orchestral
Come and observe what happens behind the scenes in a professional orchestra/chorus rehearsal with Opera North. You will observe the rehearsal and take part in a reflective conversation to share your thoughts about what you have seen and how you might be able to apply your observations to your own practice.
Side-By-Sides
Orchestral Side-By-Sides
Play side-by-side with the Orchestra of Opera North. As part of the semester 1 orchestral project, you will take part in instrument specific sectionals, larger sectionals and full orchestral rehearsals with the Orchestra of Opera North. This will lead to a side-by-side concert in The Venue.
Chorus Side-By-Sides
Take part in an Opera North rehearsal side-by-side with the Chorus of Opera North. You will get the opportunity to see what it is like to take part in a professional opera rehearsal and chat to members of the chorus about their experience. You will be singing repertoire that they are currently rehearsing for upcoming productions.
Vocal Masterclasses
The performance opportunity is only open to students studying classical voice. Performers are chosen by the vocal tutors.
There is the opportunity to both take part and observe vocal masterclasses led by the music team at Opera North.
As a performer, you will receive coaching, feedback and advice from professionals working with one of the UK’s leading opera companies.
As an observer, you will pick up lots of hints & tips, advice, and techniques that you can apply to your own practice. You will learn from and support your peers. Students from any year on any pathway are encouraged to observe.
Recital Preparation Sessions
This opportunity is open to Classical instrumental students in year 2, year 3, or studying MA Music.
Get support and feedback from professionals at Opera North as you prepare for your end of year recital. You will have the opportunity to present up to 15 minutes of music and receive supportive feedback from the panel about your performance.
The panel will include a member of the Opera North Music Team and a musician from the Orchestra of Opera North.
Mock Vocal Auditions
This opportunity is open to Classical vocal students in year 2, year 3, or studying MA Music.
Take part in a mock audition with Chorus Master Tony Kraus. You will be asked to present two pieces of your choice. One of the pieces must be in English. Opera North will provide an accompanist so you will need well-presented copies of your music for them to use.
You will then take part in a short interview with the panel. At the end of your session, you will receive supportive feedback from the panel about your performance and CV. It will be a safe space, and it is a priority to put you at ease and create an environment where you can do your best.
Conducting Masterclass
This opportunity is open to Classical vocal students in year 2 and year 3 taking the conducting module, or studying MA Music. Students from any year on any pathway are encouraged to observe.
Get the opportunity to conduct an ensemble form Opera North. You will have a preparation session (with piano) to hone your technique before conducting a chamber group of professional players.
You will get support and feedback throughout the process from Oliver Rundell, Staff Conductor and Répétiteur.
Music Education Placements – In Harmony
Take part in a 10-week placement with the award-winning In Harmony programme. Shadow one of the expert tutors and gain experience, confidence and skill to lead music in a school setting. There is an option to specialise in early years, singing, brass, stings, woodwind or special educational needs.
The placements are flexible to fit around your studies and start in October 2026. These placements are available to current foundation, year 1 and year 2 students from any pathway.