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Developing Appreciative Audiences: An art form at which we excel

The OAC expends one third of its effort in the task of cultivating appreciation for opera and musical theater. We do this by offering classes in opera appreciation, by offering programs of operatic scenes based on a particular theme to allow for serious contemplation of various aspects of operatic performance, and by bringing the audience and the performers together as learners in master classes for singers that are open to the public.

We hope you will enjoy browsing through a gallery of photographs and descriptions of our past several seasons. Our hope is that you will share with us a sense of pride and accomplishment that OAC's work has already contributed to making opera more accessible to new audiences.

Whatever form of support, encouragement and/or participation you might choose in OAC's work, we appreciate you. Your contributions of time, your ever growing appreciation of opera, and your financial support are deeply appreciated. Donations are fully tax deductible. Thank you for your time, and - in advance- for your kindness and generosity.

Highlights of the OAC Performances

We hope you'll enjoy your visit to the internet home of the Opera Academy of California. Below you'll see highlights of some great moments with young singers and master teachers, hard at work perfecting their craft in performances, Master Classes with audience members observing, or in Opera Appreciation classes for audience members.

The Opera Academy of California

Founded in 2005, Opera Academy of California (OAC) is focused on ensuring that opera as musical theater remains alive and relevant. OAC is dedicated to developing emerging singers, cultivating new audiences and bringing singers and audiences together in public performances. Our Summer Program for Emerging Singers is one of the cornerstones of the OAC vision, in addition to intimate theater performances, master classes, opera appreciation classes and programs for children.

We believe our work increases the Bay Area's passionate connection to this wonderful art form. The Academy runs programs throughout the year; the Summer program holds auditions annually.

The OAC's founder is Yefim Maizel, who has directed and assisted in the former Soviet Union, in Europe and in the US, at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, San Francisco Opera, Washington Opera, Kirov Opera, Wexford Opera Festival, Santa Fe Opera, Opera Pacific, Michigan Opera Theater and Opera Santa Barbara. In 2005 Mr. Maizel established the Opera Academy of California, which he serves as artistic director and stage director.

Connecting performance-centered vocalists and knolwedgeable audiences since 2005.

OAC Mission Statement

The Opera Academy of California (OAC) is a non-profit charitable and educational organization whose mission is to: