Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University graduate Samuel Sakker will join two fellow alumni when he arrives in London to commence the Jette Parker Young Artists Programme at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden.
The 28-year-old Melbourne-based tenor was selected from more than 390 applicants from 58 countries to train with the world’s best.
Sam says being accepted into the Programme is better than a dream come true.
“Having the resources of one of the world’s greatest opera houses at my disposal to continue my professional development is an incredible thought.
“Their collective knowledge, guidance and mentorship will give me a clear career pathway to maximise my artistic potential.”
Sam is now calling on opera lovers to assist him in his path to London as he plans for a benefit concert to raise the funds he needs to relocate.
“My dear friends, who happen to be some of Australia’s brightest opera stars; soprano Emma Matthews, mezzo-soprano Deborah Humble and baritoneJosé Carbó have very generously offered to share the stage with me for a benefit concert,” he explains.
Together with accompanist Raymond Lawrence, they will perform a selection of their favourite songs, arias and duets, including works by Wagner, Verdi, and Puccini in Melbourne this April.
“The Jette Parker Young Artists Programme unfortunately does not have the resources to assist with relocation costs and without significant assistance I will struggle to take up the offered position,” he explains.
“Mentorship, lineage and patronage are such important concepts to me – I truly believe that talent can be discovered but great artists are developed.
“It’s the mentorship and help of the established artist, the lineage of skills and craft, as well as practice and patience that allow for this development — there is no magic pill!
“To be in the environment of such esteemed professionals will be vital for my career and future as an artist,” he says.
Operation: Covent Garden
2.00pm, Sunday 13 April
The Iwaki Auditorium, ABC
120 Southbank Blvd, Southbank, Melbourne
Tickets from www.trybooking.com/ejxg or 0449 963 396.
If successful in raising the relocation costs, Sam will join fellow Queensland Conservatorium alumni Kiandra Howarth and Samuel Johnson at Covent Garden to receive tailored coaching and performance opportunities for the 2014/15 Season.