Inaugurated in 2006, LA Opera's Domingo-Colburn-Stein Young Artist Program helps highly gifted young musicians become the stars of tomorrow.

The program is a two- to three-year paid residency for singers and pianists who are transitioning from academic training to a professional career in opera. The artists work closely with superstar mezzo-soprano Susan Graham, who serves as Artistic Advisor for the program, as well as Music Director James Conlon, renowned voice teacher Stephen King, members of the LA Opera music staff, and the company's prominent guest artists throughout each season.

To date, 19 former members of the program have made debuts at the Metropolitan Opera. Alumni have also made important debuts at La Scala, Covent Garden, San Francisco Opera, Deutsche Oper Berlin and English National Opera, to name just a few. Many have also returned to LA Opera to sing leading roles.

YAP group 2023 24 header

Front row: Alan Williams, Kathleen O'Mara, Deepa Johnny, Anthony León, Madeleine Lyon, Lucas Nogara.
Top row: Manuel Arellano, Sarah Saturnino, Lucas Nogara, Madeleine Lyon, Ryan Wolfe

2023/24 Young Artists

Manuel Arellano, pianist/coach
Deepa Johnny, mezzo-soprano
Anthony León, tenor
Madeleine Lyonmezzo-soprano
Lucas Nogara, pianist/coach
Kathleen O'Mara, soprano
Sarah Saturnino, mezzo-soprano
Alan Williams, bass-baritone
Ryan Wolfe, baritone

Click here for a list of the program's alumni.

The Domingo-Colburn-Stein Young Artist Program is generously underwritten by the Colburn Foundation, Eugene and Marilyn Stein, and Richard and Lenore Wayne. Special support for young artist stipends is graciously provided by The Lenore and Richard Wayne Young Artist Fellowship. Additional gifts from donors to the Young Artist Circle. The program was created with funding from the Flora L. Thornton Foundation. Additional support from Jerry and Terri Kohl.