Founded in 1970, the Royal Higher Institute for Music and Pedagogy (IMEP) in Namur has a special campus dedicated to music education, particularly singing. As a place of exchange and encounter that defines itself as open to the world and the current state of musical and social practices, IMEP is an important player in training young artists in French-speaking Belgium.
The Royal Opera of Wallonia-Liège has had a long-standing collaboration with IMEP, offering students, singers and instrumentalists the opportunity to participate in various productions. By being immersed in the rehearsal process, coming into contact with conductors and members of the orchestra or choir, students can become familiar with their future profession and its peculiarities, while perfectly aligning with IMEP's motto: "Practice is at the centre of learning".
Both institutions have decided to intensify their already successful collaboration by establishing a partnership for professional development in the field of opera. This aligns with the Royal Opera of Wallonia-Liège's desire to further expand its commitment to the education and mentoring of young artists. This ambitious project is a continuation of IMEP's establishment of a new department for further specialisation in opera, led by soprano Patrizia Ciofi, from the 2023-2024 academic year.
As a leading opera personality, loyal to our stage and experienced pedagogue, Patrizia Ciofi will be the connecting factor between the two institutions and will be responsible for coordinating a comprehensive mentoring programme for students, with high-level courses and masterclasses.
In addition to the education organised by IMEP, the Royal Opera of Wallonia-Liège will offer students enrolled in this section and selected on the basis of their artistic qualities the opportunity to apply their learning experience directly in practice during various productions, during rehearsal periods and performances. In close collaboration with Patrizia Ciofi, students will be integrated into the productions and fully participate in the opera company's dynamics. They will in particular have the opportunity to perform small roles in operas and performances for young audiences, but also to engage in in-depth study of roles close to creation. In the short term, they may already be entrusted with roles in youth productions such as "Figaro, le Barbier du Bois joli" (January 2024) and "Patiente, mon cœur" (May 2024). This initiative will be further expanded in the coming seasons.
The Royal Opera of Wallonia-Liège will also be involved in the entrance examinations, which will take place on the opera stage at the beginning of the following September. By organising the auditions in the opera house, the collaboration between the two institutions gains an ideal context and also benefits from greater visibility.
Finally, IMEP has proposed to relocate 8 productions per year to the Grand Manège in collaboration with the cultural centre of Namur. Within this framework, productions in collaboration with the Royal Opera of Wallonia-Liège can also be considered, which will benefit the young artists and both institutions. The Royal Opera of Wallonia-Liège and IMEP are thus committed to a positive dynamic that will undoubtedly make emerging talent in the French Community of Belgium shine.
Stefano Pace, General and Artistic Director of the Royal Opera of Wallonia-Liège:
"It is both an honour and a pride for the Royal Opera of Wallonia-Liège to participate in such an ambitious partnership. The enthusiasm of Patrizia Ciofi, Guido Jardon and the various stakeholders of IMEP is as great as ours, in light of the prospect of guiding those who will enchant our stages in the years to come in their learning process and continuing the beautiful heritage of opera.
Let us push the boundaries of courage and innovation! This is a rare and exciting partnership that places art, music and young people at the centre. Together we will offer our students unique artistic experiences, specially designed to allow them to fully grow and effectively prepare for a brilliant future career. Let us prepare to be taken on a journey into a world where creativity and talent converge and create a new generation of visionary artists. Welcome to an adventure that challenges conventions and opens new paths to artistic excellence!"
Guido Jardon, General Director of the Royal Higher Institute for Music and Pedagogy (IMEP):
"I did not choose education, education chose me! At this point in my career, I find it important to pass on my stage experience and the knowledge I have acquired over the years to the younger generation. I have always greatly appreciated IMEP during previous collaborations, and the level of excellence in their education has made a strong impression on me. I am very honoured that I have been chosen to lead the new programme for further specialisation in opera, and I am absolutely enthusiastic about the collaboration that is looming with the Royal Opera of Wallonia-Liège!"
Photo: Opéra Royal de Wallonie-Liège - © Jacques Croisier