The Opera Training Companion4 Jul 2025

BONUS: Parenting in Opera

This episode explores the highs and lows of parenting in opera, from backstage breastfeeds and split-second childcare swaps, to the evolving voice, identity shifts, and emotional resilience it demands.

Hosted by Hannah Sandison, singer, performance psychology consultant, and representative of SWAP’ra (Supporting Women and Parents in Opera), the roundtable features mezzo-soprano Anna Cooper, soprano Jennifer France, and tenor David Butt Philip.

Together, they speak candidly about touring schedules, vocal changes after pregnancy, childcare logistics, and the guilt that comes with missing milestones, or turning up to rehearsals on no sleep.

They share stories of support, survival, and surprising joy: children in the audience, FaceTime tidying races, and finding space to thrive both artistically and as parents.

Whether you're a working parent, a curious colleague, or a singer thinking about the future, this episode offers honest reflections, practical advice, and proof that yes, it really is possible to raise children and sing.

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Episoder(14)

BONUS: Kissing, Violence, Vulnerability: Staging Intimacy in Opera

What does it actually take to stage intimacy - kissing, simulated sex, violence, and emotionally vulnerable moments - safely, ethically, and artistically?In this episode of The Opera Training Companio...

29 Jul 51min

10. Disrupting habits and reframing practice

What if the way you’ve always practiced is holding you back? In this episode of The Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls, alongside Soprano Olivia Rose Tringham (2024/25 alum), explore how d...

29 Jan 50min

9. The Role of Agents in an Operatic Career

What exactly does an agent do for opera singers - and when should a young artist consider working with one? In this episode of Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls sits down with Sue Spence ...

9 Des 202547min

8. Young Artist Programmes

What exactly is a Young Artist Programme, and why do they matter so much to the future of opera? Host Rachel Nicholls – acclaimed soprano and NOS coach – is joined by two leading figures in the opera ...

28 Okt 202537min

7. Working abroad

Host Rachel Nicholls is joined by baritone Nick Mogg (2018/19 alum), currently a member of the Solo Ensemble at the Staatsoper Hamburg, and Fiona Wells, servicing manager at Groves Artists, to explore...

24 Sep 202554min

6. Vocal health

In this episode of The Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls, alongside expert guests Kate Valentine (Valentine Voice Care) and ENT surgeon Declan Costello, dive into essential topics on main...

27 Mai 202553min

5. Opera Coaching

In this episode of Opera Training Companion, host Rachel Nicholls is joined by Alex Ingram and Della Jones from the National Opera Studio to explore the role of coaching in opera. They discuss what it...

24 Feb 202540min