OPERA COMPOSITION
Writing for Opera. Orchestration. Counterpoint.​
MICHAEL J. POLO | ARTISTIC LEADERSHIP
Michael J. Polo, Ph.D., is an acclaimed composer whose works span opera, musical theatre, and orchestral music. His operas, PLUTO and Mad Hatter the Musical, showcase his gift for dramatic storytelling and melodic invention, blending tradition with contemporary expression. As founder of Partners for the Arts Abroad, Polo has created platforms for new operatic voices through festivals in Vienna, London, São Paulo, and Sofia. His music has been premiered by ensembles such as the Sofia Philharmonic and Brasília National Symphony, affirming his role as a composer who bridges innovation and accessibility while expanding opera’s reach to international audiences.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Arrival July 7th - Departure August 3rd
We are only accepting 4 composers
Program Fee: €3750; includes housing, local transportation, private lessons, performances, masterclasses, and cultural excursions
The Opera Composition Program at the Vienna Summer Music Festival offers a unique and intensive opportunity for emerging composers with a passion for opera and musical theater. Designed exclusively for budding composers, this program provides an immersive environment where participants will study under the guidance of renowned contemporary composers and industry professionals.
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Throughout the program, composers will develop and refine their own original micro opera, culminating in a fully orchestrated world premiere. These new works will be brought to life by members of the Vienna Summer Music Festival Orchestra and the Opera Institute, offering participants an invaluable chance to hear their compositions performed by top-tier musicians in a professional setting.
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From libretto development and dramatic structure to vocal writing and orchestration, the Opera Composition Program supports every stage of the creative process equipping composers with the tools, mentorship, and performance platform to launch their careers in opera and musical theater.
PERFORMANCE DETAILS
Requirements for Performance
A fully finished piano/vocal score must be submitted and completed for review by March 15th, 2026.​
The total length should exceed 20 minutes. Instrumentation will be decided after review. ​
Total Number of Singers
We encourage to utilize between 2 -5 singers for your opera. You are encouraged to write for a variety of voice types and should utilize a minimum of three sopranos.
Directing your show
Your show will be directed by one of our in house directors and you will speak with them in advance of rehearsals so they are fully aware of your concept.
FEATURED COMPOSITION FACULTY
Application Requirements
Applicants for OPERA COMPOSITION are required to submit two contrasting original compositions (preferably operatic songs but instrumental music is fine as well.) MIDI realizations are acceptable. Applicants should submit scores and mp3s of their works.
All application and audition materials including YouTube links, audio files, headshot, resume and must be submitted via a single link to an approved file sharing site such as Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, or iCloud.
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Resumes may be submitted as PDF or Word Document files only, and should include the applicant’s first and last name.
All applicants will be contacted by The Vienna Summer Music Festival for a phone or video conference interview, and should receive an initial response in 7-10 business days.
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After completing the application, you will be redirected to PayPal to complete a $35 submission fee. ​