Former members include Ben Heppner, Krisztina Szabó, Emily D’Angelo, Claire de Sévigné, Gordon Bintner, Ambur Braid, Miriam Khalil, and Wallis Giunta, and David Pomeroy. Since 1980, nearly 230 young professional Canadian singers and pianists have acquired foundational opera experience through the Ensemble Studio. Through performances and collaborations with local schools and organizations, Ensemble members are often the first point of contact with opera for many their ongoing participation in this area is integral to creating inclusive and welcoming opportunities for more people to engage with the art form.

Members of the Ensemble Studio are the COC’s resident artists and important community ambassadors for the company. Ensemble singers perform and understudy mainstage roles, while Ensemble pianists participate in the preparation of the COC’s mainstage productions. Artists receive intensive vocal coaching language, movement and acting studies as well as private masterclasses with renowned opera professionals. The company’s uniquely collaborative approach blends advanced study and practical experience through a multi-year program that’s individually tailored for each member. The COC Ensemble Studio is an innovative artist development program for emerging Canadian opera professionals.

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