The Opera Training Companion – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

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The Opera Training Companion

National Opera Studio

Arts

Music

Education

Frequency: 1 episode/50d. Total Eps: 14

Welcome to The Opera Training Companion from the National Opera Studio - your go-to podcast for navigating the world of opera. Join us as we bring together industry-leading experts from opera and beyond, covering every aspect of what it takes to thrive (and survive!) as an artist in the operatic world. Hosted by soprano Rachel Nicholls who has been an opera singer for 25 years and is a regular coach at the Studio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Recent rankings

Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.

Apple Podcasts

🇬🇧 Great Britain - performingArts
20/08/2026
#75
🇬🇧 Great Britain - performingArts
19/08/2026
#50
🇬🇧 Great Britain - performingArts
15/08/2026
#100
🇩🇪 Germany - performingArts
15/08/2026
#80
🇬🇧 Great Britain - performingArts
14/08/2026
#86
🇩🇪 Germany - performingArts
14/08/2026
#64
🇬🇧 Great Britain - performingArts
13/08/2026
#57
🇩🇪 Germany - performingArts
13/08/2026
#51
🇩🇪 Germany - performingArts
11/08/2026
#29
🇨🇦 Canada - performingArts
09/08/2026
#86

Spotify

No recent rankings available

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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https://vocalhealth.co.uk/
2 shares
https://www.heidimosserickson.com/
2 shares

RSS feed quality and score

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RSS feed quality

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Score global : 69%

Publication history

Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.

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Latest published episodes

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Introducing...The Opera Training Companion - Coming October 2024

Season 1

Friday, October 11, 2024 • Duration 01:22

Welcome to The Opera Training Companion from the National Opera Studio - your go-to podcast for navigating the world of opera.

Hosted by internationally renowned soprano Rachel Nicholls, with over 25 years of experience on the stage and a principal coach at the Studio, this series brings together industry-leading experts from the world of opera and beyond.

Each episode - recorded at the Studio's home in London - dives deep into what it truly takes to thrive (and survive!) as an opera artist, offering you insider knowledge, practical tips, and personal stories to help you on your journey. Whether you're an emerging singer, a seasoned performer, or simply passionate about the art form, The Opera Training Companion will be your trusted guide in navigating the highs and lows of this demanding and exhilarating career.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1. How to succeed at auditions

Season 1 · Episode 1

Tuesday, November 5, 2024 • Duration 36:38

Welcome to the very first episode of The Opera Training Companion brought to you by the National Opera Studio in London. In this episode, host Rachel Nicholls, alongside Allyson Devenish ( Senior Coach, National Opera Studio) and casting director Sarah Playfair, dive into the essentials of auditioning in the opera world. They explore how singers can land auditions, prepare their repertoire, and make the best impression in front of casting panels. From selecting the right pieces to showcasing acting skills, the experts share practical tips on navigating the audition process. They also highlight how to build a positive reputation, even when not landing the role, and provide essential advice on audition etiquette and standing out in a competitive field.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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BONUS: Training at the National Opera Studio

Season 1

Thursday, November 7, 2024 • Duration 42:32

In this bonus episode of The Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls, an experienced opera singer and coach, is joined by two National Opera Studio alum: repetiteur Jacob Swindells (2023/24) and mezzo-soprano Joanna Harries (2022/23). They discuss what it's like to train at the National Opera Studio, from the unique audition process to the daily routines and challenges of balancing life in London. They reflect on the personal growth experienced during their time at the Studio and offer advice for incoming Young Artists. Listeners will also hear about the vital financial support available and tips for thriving in the professional music world.

Find out more about the Young Artist Programme at the National Opera Studio:

https://www.nationaloperastudio.org.uk/training/young-artists-programme/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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2. Nutrition Essentials for Singers

Season 1 · Episode 2

Wednesday, November 13, 2024 • Duration 43:20

In this episode, host Rachel Nicholls explores the vital role of nutrition for singers with guest Julie Cooper, a soprano, vocal coach, and nutritionist. They debunk myths about dairy, coffee, alcohol, and hydration, while discussing how to manage acid reflux—an issue many singers face. Julie also shares practical advice on maintaining energy, gut, and immune health while touring and performing. They wrap up by offering key tips for young singers to build a nutritional toolkit that supports both vocal and overall health. Perfect for singers seeking actionable, science-backed nutrition advice!

Julie is a fully qualified Nutritional Therapist DipION; a member of The British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (mBANT) and regulated by The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC reg).

Useful links:

Julie's nutrition toolkit for singers

Julie's website: https://julie-cooper.co.uk/

Or find her on Instagram: @juliecoopernutrition

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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3. Resilience & Elite performance coaching

Season 1 · Episode 3

Tuesday, December 17, 2024 • Duration 40:16

In this episode of the Opera Training Companion podcast, host Rachel Nicholls dives into the topic of resilience in elite performance with high-performance coach Cliodhna O’Connor. They explore the parallels between elite athletes and opera singers, discussing what resilience truly is and how to build it. Key insights include strategies for fostering resilience, the challenges performers face in high-pressure environments, and the role of mental health. The episode also addresses the unique emotional toll that singers experience when embodying difficult characters on stage, providing listeners with a toolkit for thriving in demanding artistic careers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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4. The World of Opera Repetiteurs

Season 1 · Episode 4

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 • Duration 42:53

In this episode of The Opera Training Companion, Rachel Nicholls dives into the fascinating role of opera repetiteurs with Brenda Hurley (Royal Academy of Music) and Susanna Stranders (The Royal Opera).

Discover what it takes to excel as a repetiteur—mastering both the art of playing and the psychology of rehearsals. From defining their vital role in opera companies to exploring the unique career paths and skills required, this episode offers insights for aspiring repetiteurs and music enthusiasts alike. Whether you're curious about the rehearsal process, preparing scores, or auditioning for this rewarding career, our guests share invaluable advice and personal experiences.

Tune in for expert tips, career wisdom, and a glimpse into the evolving life of these unsung heroes of the operatic world.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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5. Opera Coaching

Season 1 · Episode 5

Monday, February 24, 2025 • Duration 40:48

In this episode of Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls is joined by Alex Ingram and Della Jones from the National Opera Studio to explore the role of coaching in opera. They discuss what it means to be a coach, how it differs from teaching or accompanying, and the unique skills required for the job, including both musical and psychological insight. The conversation covers when and how singers and pianists should seek coaching, how to make the most of a session, and tips for coaches on breaking through emotional barriers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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6. Vocal health

Season 1 · Episode 6

Tuesday, May 27, 2025 • Duration 53:51

In this episode of The Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls, alongside expert guests Kate Valentine (Valentine Voice Care) and ENT surgeon Declan Costello, dive into essential topics on maintaining vocal health. They explore common vocal issues singers face, the psychological and physical factors affecting the voice, and the importance of early intervention. Busting myths about vocal nodules, singing with a cold, and voice care gadgets, they also provide practical advice on building long-term vocal health habits. Perfect for young singers, this episode offers valuable insights into distinguishing between technical challenges and serious vocal health concerns.

You may also be interested in episode 2 focusing on nutrition essentials for singers with Julie Cooper.

Useful links:

The Royal Society of Musicians

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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7. Working abroad

Season 1 · Episode 7

Wednesday, September 24, 2025 • Duration 54:16

Host Rachel Nicholls is joined by baritone Nick Mogg (2018/19 alum), currently a member of the Solo Ensemble at the Staatsoper Hamburg, and Fiona Wells, servicing manager at Groves Artists, to explore the realities of working abroad as an opera artist.

Nick shares his first hand experience of life and work in Germany—how he navigates visas, accommodation, and cultural adjustments, as well as the artistic and personal rewards of working internationally. He reflects on differences in rehearsal styles, audience engagement, and what British musicians could learn from the German approach to opera.

Meanwhile, Fiona provides expert insight into the practicalities of working abroad, from managing travel expenses and visas to adapting to Brexit-related changes and the growing focus on environmentally conscious touring. She also offers valuable advice for young artists planning their first international engagements, including whether a second passport is worth considering.

Useful resources:

Visas and work permits in Europe

https://www.ism.org/visa-guide-europe/

Brexit round-up

https://www.ism.org/advice/brexit-roundup/

📩 Got a question for future guests? Email podcast@nationaloperastudio.org.uk or find us on Instagram @nationaloperastudio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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BONUS: Parenting in Opera

Friday, July 4, 2025 • Duration 53:54

This episode explores the highs and lows of parenting in opera, from backstage breastfeeds and split-second childcare swaps, to the evolving voice, identity shifts, and emotional resilience it demands.

Hosted by Hannah Sandison, singer, performance psychology consultant, and representative of SWAP’ra (Supporting Women and Parents in Opera), the roundtable features mezzo-soprano Anna Cooper, soprano Jennifer France, and tenor David Butt Philip.

Together, they speak candidly about touring schedules, vocal changes after pregnancy, childcare logistics, and the guilt that comes with missing milestones, or turning up to rehearsals on no sleep.

They share stories of support, survival, and surprising joy: children in the audience, FaceTime tidying races, and finding space to thrive both artistically and as parents.

Whether you're a working parent, a curious colleague, or a singer thinking about the future, this episode offers honest reflections, practical advice, and proof that yes, it really is possible to raise children and sing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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The Opera Training Companion – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

The Opera Training Companion – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Other15

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Other15

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Apple Podcast1

Apple Podcasts

Spotify