YAP Online Program - Session 1 - Understanding American YAPs - Colin Michael Brush

Summary
Colin M and Michael Pegher discussed the realities of building an opera career, with a focus on the value of distinctive artistic expression, solid vocal technique, and confidence in auditions. Colin M shared insight into the Houston Grand Opera Young Artist Program, which looks for potential, communication, charisma, and musical intelligence rather than pure polish. Michael Pegher and Colin M also spoke about navigating post-pandemic challenges, how to convey vocal quality in recordings, and why networking and external opportunities play such a major role for any Student aiming for a professional path.

Details

HGO Young Artist Program and Class Quality
Colin M told Michael Pegher that the most recent Houston Grand Opera class was the strongest they have had, with no weak link despite a challenging balance of nine singers, two pianists, four tenors, and only two women (00:00:00).

Balancing Artistry and Practicality
Michael Pegher pointed out that many young singers hesitate to stand out before proving they can fit established expectations (00:18:46). Colin M agreed, noting that there is no clear formula for success and that exceptions happen constantly (00:19:56).

The Importance of Distinctive Artistic Expression
Colin M emphasized that colleagues want to understand what an artist is trying to say, especially now that the field has tightened. They stressed that strong artists know who they are through introspection, curiosity, and a willingness to draw from varied life experiences (00:14:30, 00:17:53, 00:16:44).

Vocal Technique as Foundation
Colin M underlined that excellent technique is essential for A-level houses and international careers. They described three pillars of reliable technique: full cord closure, full-body support, and tuned resonances (00:33:56, 00:36:02). This level of technique gives performers the freedom and confidence needed for nuanced expression.

HGO’s Training Philosophy
Colin M explained that HGO focuses on potential rather than polish, knowing that most singers will need further artistic development (00:29:42, 00:41:00, 00:54:48). This is supported by access to an exceptional vocal technician who can help singers progress quickly (00:28:49, 00:30:55).

Age Limits and Program Fit
Michael Pegher raised the concern that YAP age limits are getting younger (00:23:51, 00:28:49). Colin M confirmed that while HGO tends to skew younger, there is no strict age rule. They stressed that the real question is whether the program can meet a Student’s developmental needs (00:29:42, 00:46:15, 00:24:53, 00:47:07).

Finding the Right Program and Using Networks
Colin M encouraged Students to use their networks to understand the artistic tastes of different opera houses and programs. Houses vary widely in what they want, especially in larger opera centers (00:25:53, 00:24:53).

Pandemic Impact and Career Paths
A Student expressed concern about losing important development years during the pandemic (00:44:13). Colin M acknowledged this loss (00:48:59) but reminded everyone that successful careers can still be built without traditional YAP pathways (00:48:03, 00:50:08).

Confidence and Commitment in Auditions
Colin M explained that confidence in an audition shapes perception immediately (00:46:15). Michael Pegher added that singers should not wait to show artistic commitment. Consistent, courageous practice leads to genuine expression and often to winning jobs (00:42:03, 00:50:08).

Common Application Mistakes
Colin M noted that while minor issues are not disqualifying, major intonation problems or clear vocal distress are immediate red flags (00:55:42, 00:57:40).

Evaluating Potential vs Polish
For a training-based program like HGO, potential and instinct outweigh polish, especially for Students who have had limited instruction (00:52:16, 00:54:48). In more advanced casting situations, a higher level of polish is necessary.

What HGO Looks For
Colin M highlighted that beyond vocal ability, they seek communication, charisma, and musical intelligence (00:59:19). They also noted that some major programs, such as in Munich, do not emphasize technique the same way (01:00:06).

Technician Shortage
Colin M commented on the shortage of highly skilled voice technicians in the field (01:00:06). Michael Pegher noted with pride that many of the best-known technicians have connections to CCMR (01:00:55).

Risk of Auditioning Too Early
Michael Pegher raised concerns about auditioning too early (01:01:40). Colin M responded that major houses require readiness, but YAPs are more forgiving for Students under 30 (01:02:40, 01:03:39).

Importance of Personal Development
Colin M explained that while early mistakes can close certain doors, long-term persistence and development can still lead to a successful career (01:04:29).

Pre-Screening and Recordings
A Student asked about conveying vocal quality in recordings (01:06:31). Colin M acknowledged that recordings are imperfect for evaluating larger voices, and that they prioritize hearing people in person (01:07:52, 01:08:37).

Recording Recommendations
Colin M suggested that larger voices consider recording in a big, resonant space with simple equipment like an iPhone (01:10:30). Michael Pegher recommended using an external microphone to avoid audio-level issues (01:12:18).

Advice for Students with Limited School Opportunities
A Student asked what to do if their school lacks opera productions (01:13:20). Colin M encouraged adopting a performer’s mentality early, explaining that technique matters more than performance credits at this stage (01:15:26).

Seeking External Opportunities
Colin M urged Students to look outside their school for chances to perform and network, mentioning programs focused on training and exposure (01:16:27, 01:18:12). Michael Pegher added that networking significantly reduces perceived risk for employers (01:19:45).

Personal Drive and Program Selection
Colin M shared that their own administrative opportunities came from long-standing contacts (01:20:38). They noted that drive and determination make a strong impression, and that some schools excel at connecting Students with the industry (01:21:33, 01:22:32).

Looking Ahead
Michael Pegher closed by announcing that the next session would focus on the German market for young artists, including expectations and daily life in German opera houses (01:24:16).