The Virtual Stage Project

Virtual Stage explores the applicative modalities and limits of the introduction of distance learning in the professional training of opera singers and instrumentalists through a research and experimentation process shared by 6 partners from 4 European countries (IT, FR, NL, CZ). who will work together for 2 years, combining different skills to define a common methodological approach transferable to all European Countries.

The introduction of digital technologies for distance teaching and learning represents a major innovation in the field of vocational training in the opera sector. The introduction of digital technologies for teaching and learning at a distance represents a major innovation in the field of vocational training in the opera sector. These are practices that have proved and continue to prove their effectiveness in training both artists and technicians.

The Virtual Stage project relates to the tradition of the opera sector and expands its potential by studying synchronous and asynchronous modes of interaction specifically designed for this sector.  The appropriately selected digital technologies allow to carry out online, and therefore at a distance (in whole or in part) the practical training activities required for the acquisition and updating of the skills of opera singers and instrumentalists.

This is the function of the ‘virtual stage’, intended as a set of digital technologies that extend the practical training possibilities of artists beyond the limits of the physical presence of teachers and learners in a theatre or music hall.

The Virtual Stage method will make it possible, in the current COVID-19 emergency and any similar circumstances in the future, to guarantee continuity of teaching in a field which is currently limited – in its traditional operating methods – by the restrictions imposed by anti-pandemic health measures.

The Virtual Stage method will also make it possible to make the organisation of training activities more flexible even under normal conditions, offering alternatives to reduce costs and loosen – where required – the space and time constraints of training.

The Virtual Stage project envisages 5 intellectual outputs that shall be developed and validated through piloting in the 4 project countries with the cooperation of all project partners.

The first Intellectual Output of the Virtual Stage project is an analysis of the methods, objectives and results of the use of digital technologies …

This Intellectual Output presents the Virtual Stage method in the guidelines for the training of singers: techniques, methods, criteria, resources, good practices and case studies for the distance and blended professional training …

This Intellectual Output contains guidelines for the training of instrumentalists: techniques, methods, criteria, resources, good practices and case studies for distance and blended vocational training …

The OERs Repository is a web application open to all interested users, with free registration. It will contain materials that can be used to apply the distance learning methods …

Participants will learn how to use distance learning by adapting it to singing and instrumental techniques and to opera disciplines.

The aim is to explain the importance and infinite potential of new digital technologies in training …

The project target groups are:

– Direct target: opera trainers, music disciplines teachers and, specifically, singing teachers, instrument teachers, collaborating teachers, trainers in scenic art, choir and orchestra conducting;

– Indirect target: music students, professionals and workers involved in production and VET in the field of opera, other trainers in the music and technology sectors, organizations specializing in VET in performing arts and music or in music production, conservatories, music schools, theaters and training organisations in the opera field.