

Royal Academy Opera (RAO) functions as a small opera company and a bridge to the profession.
The two-year postgraduate course*, which includes invaluable performance experience, is for exceptionally talented singers with the potential and aspiration to succeed as principals at the highest levels. Generous bursaries are available for RAO students.
Our highly focused study environment includes one-to-one tuition, group classes and opera scenes, as well as three fully staged productions per year, which are regularly attended by representatives from opera companies, artist agencies and the national press.
You will work closely with distinguished in-house professors and international visiting artists, and will also benefit from acting and movement classes, language coaching and classes in many other areas of professional development.
*For undergraduate training, see Vocal Studies.
Bicentenary Series Masterclass with Joyce DiDonato
Introduction to the Vocal Studies and Opera Departments with Kate Paterson and Brenda Hurley
'Myself I shall adore' from Handel's Semele, performed by Royal Academy Opera
Open Days are the perfect way to discover more about the Academy and whether it’s the right place for you.
Find out practical information about the application process, finances and career development on the Open Days Home Page.