Met Opera Internships: An Inside Look into the World of Opera

The Metropolitan Opera (Met) is one of the most prestigious opera companies in the world and offers a variety of internship opportunities for aspiring opera professionals. These internships provide a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the opera industry and to learn from the best in the business.

The Met offers a wide range of internships, including:

• Artistic Administration: Interns assist with the planning and execution of the Met’s artistic season, including casting, production planning, and marketing.
• Audience Services: Interns work with the Met’s audience development team to create and implement programs and events that engage and educate opera audiences.
• Development: Interns support the Met’s fundraising efforts, including grant-writing, donor cultivation, and special events planning.
• Education: Interns develop and implement educational programs for students and the general public, including workshops, lectures, and performances.
• Opera Management: Interns learn about the day-to-day operations of an opera company, including production, casting, and marketing.
• Production: Interns work with the Met’s production team to create and execute the stage sets, costumes, and lighting for the Met’s productions.
• Stage Management: Interns assist with the stage management of the Met’s productions, including rehearsals, performances, and technical issues.

Interning at the Met offers a number of benefits, including:

• Hands-on experience: Interns gain practical experience in all aspects of opera production, from artistic planning to audience development to stage management.
• Networking opportunities: Interns have the opportunity to meet and work with leading opera professionals, including singers, conductors, directors, and administrators.
• Professional development: Interns develop valuable skills in project management, communication, and teamwork.
• Career advancement: Internships can lead to full-time employment at the Met or other opera companies.

To be eligible for an internship at the Met, applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university
• Have a strong interest in opera
• Be available to work 10-15 hours per week
• Be able to commit to the entire internship period (usually 10-12 weeks)

Interested applicants should submit the following materials to [email protected]:

• A cover letter explaining your interest in the internship and how your skills and experience would benefit the Met
• A resume highlighting your relevant experience and skills
• A transcript of your academic record
• Two letters of recommendation

The Met’s internship program runs from September to May. Applications are due in May for the following fall semester and in November for the following spring semester.

Here are some quotes from former Met interns about their experiences:

• “My internship at the Met was an incredible opportunity to learn about all aspects of opera production. I worked with a variety of departments, from artistic planning to audience development to stage management. I gained invaluable experience and made lifelong connections.” – Sarah Jones, Artistic Administration Intern
• “I interned with the Met’s Education department and loved developing and implementing educational programs for students and the general public. I learned so much about opera and how to make it accessible to a wider audience.” – Emily Smith, Education Intern
• “My internship with the Met’s Development department was a great way to learn about the business side of opera. I assisted with grant-writing, donor cultivation, and special events planning. I gained valuable skills in fundraising and event management.” – John Doe, Development Intern

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Met’s internship program:

• How many interns does the Met hire each year? The Met hires approximately 20 interns each year.
• What is the pay for interns? Interns are unpaid. However, they do receive a stipend for transportation and food.
• Can I get college credit for my internship? Yes, you can arrange to get college credit for your internship through your university.
• What are the hours of the internship? Interns typically work 10-15 hours per week, with flexible hours to accommodate class schedules.
• What is the dress code for interns? Interns are expected to dress professionally for work.

• Met Opera Internship Program website: https://www.metopera.org/about/internships/
• Opera America Internship Directory: https://www.operaamerica.org/internships/
• National Endowment for the Arts Opera Grants: https://www.arts.gov/grants/national-endowment-arts-grants/opera-grants

The Met Opera Internship Program is a valuable opportunity for aspiring opera professionals to gain hands-on experience and to learn from the best in the business. If you are passionate about opera and are looking for a challenging and rewarding internship, I encourage you to apply.