INO Studio 2025–26 Announcement

INO Studio and Outreach Executive, Paddy Jo Malpas says “I’m very excited to welcome a new group of incredibly talented artists to the INO Studio. The Studio is now going into its eighth year, which is a huge achievement, and I look forward to carrying on its legacy in training the future of Irish operatic talent. Many of our former members have gone on to develop international profiles after graduating from the programme and have worked in a variety of prestigious institutions, including the Royal Ballet and Opera London, Bayerische Staatsoper Munich and Bregenzer Festspiele Austria. More importantly though, several of our alumni have returned to INO to work in major roles in our productions. The INO Studio offers essential experience and mentorship and provides an excellent start to our young artists’ professional careers.” 

The INO Studio is an annual programme dedicated to fostering the next generation of operatic talent in Ireland. Designed to provide emerging artists with intensive training, hands-on experience and personalised career support, the initiative plays a central role in the company’s mission to sustain and grow an opera ecology in Ireland.  

Studio artists are offered invaluable opportunities to perform in INO productions— as chorus members, understudies for principal roles or in other creative capacities. Non-singing participants also benefit from the programme, assisting in rehearsals and learning the intricacies of opera production directly from experienced professionals. In addition, a series of curated events and showcases provides INO Studio members with the chance to perform for industry leaders and wider audiences. 

Baritone David Kennedy says “Being part of the Irish National Opera Studio has given me such a safe and creative space to grow as an artist. It has encouraged me to try out new ideas, take risks, and explore different repertoire and vocal colours in a supportive environment with such fundamental coachings, masterclasses and experiences. I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunities and guidance I’ve received, and I’m genuinely excited to see where another year with the Studio will take me, both in my professional journey and on a personal level!”

The programme is further enriched by mentorship from internationally acclaimed singers and musicians, as well as masterclasses to refine performance techniques and language proficiency. A key contributor is vocal consultant Brenda Hurley, former Head of Opera at the Royal Academy of Music in London, who works closely with the singers throughout the year to guide and shape their artistic development. INO Studio members will also benefit from the company’s national and international networks, gaining access to opportunities and connections across the opera world.   

The 2025-26 INO Studio intake brings together an exceptionally talented group of artists, both new and returning, who will be well positioned for future success both in Ireland and internationally.