The Authentic Singer Cohort
A Partnership Between AuthenticOpera Co. and the Black Arts & Cultural Center
We created the Authentic Singer Cohort because we want singers to have a place where they can really work on their voice, grow as performers, and learn the things we don't always get taught about being a singer.Strong technique matters, but there is so much more to being an artist. We want you to know your voice, be confident in what you bring to the stage, understand your worth, and learn how to create opportunities for yourself.Most importantly, We want you to discover what makes you authentic as a singer.
We look forward to hearing you sing!
Carmen Bell, M.M.
Founder & Artistic DirectorAuthenticOpera Co.
About The Cohort
Authentic Singer Cohort is an eight-month experience designed to help you develop healthy vocal technique, become a stronger performer, explore who you are as a singer, and learn the professional side of the business.
We will meet twice a month from October 2026 through May 2027 at the Black Arts & Cultural Center.
You will have the opportunity to sing different styles of music, including contemporary music, R&B, jazz, musical theatre, gospel, classical music, and repertoire that connects with your interests and goals.
CAREER Cohort
Ages 13–18
If you are serious about singing and interested in college, performing, or possibly pursuing music professionally, Career Studio is for you.
We will work on your voice, repertoire, performance confidence, auditions, and the skills you need to be prepared when opportunities come your way.
INDEPENDENT Cohort
Adult Singers
Maybe you already perform. Maybe you want to start performing more. Or maybe you have been away from singing for a while and you are ready to come back to it.
Independent Studio gives you a place to develop healthy vocal technique, explore different styles of music, become a stronger performer, and pursue singing on your own terms.
What to Expect
This is more than voice lessons.
I want to help you grow as a singer and understand everything that comes with being a performer.
The Voice | Find your sound.
We are going to work on your technique, breath, range, vocal health, and the music that works for your voice.
The Performer | Own the stage.
I want you to be comfortable getting up and performing. We will work on stage presence, storytelling, movement, microphone skills, and connecting with your audience.
The Audition | Be ready.
Learn how to choose the right audition music, prepare your cuts and self-tapes, work with an accompanist, and walk into an audition knowing you are prepared.
The Identity | Be you.
What do you love to sing? What sounds like you? We will explore different styles of music and help you figure out who you are as a singer.
The Business | Know your worth.
I want you to understand the business too. Learn how to find opportunities, get booked, set your fees, understand contracts, build relationships, and get paid.
The Brand | Let people know who you are.
Learn how to use your headshots, social media, website, performance videos, and other materials to represent yourself as a singer.
2027 BLACK ARTS FESTIVAL SINGER SHOWCASE
And yes, you are going to perform! You will have the opportunity to take what you have worked on and perform in our Singer Showcase at the 2027 Black Arts Festival.
Program Details
We will meet twice a month from October 2026 through May 2027 at the Black Arts & Cultural Center.
October 2026–May 2027
Two Cohort sessions each month
Tuition: $150 for the entire eight-month program
Competitive scholarships are available
Are You Ready To Audition?
We want to hear you sing!
Auditions will be held at the Black Arts & Cultural Center:
September 13, 2026 | 2:00–5:00 PM
September 16, 2026 | 5:00–7:00 PM
You can bring a recording track link or sing a cappella. An accompanist will not be provided.
Can't make either audition date? Apply anyway. Let us know on your application that you are unavailable for the scheduled dates, and we will contact you.
Win Your Spot
All singers who audition will have the opportunity to be considered for a competitive scholarship toward the $150 program fee. Scholarships will be awarded based on audition performance and are limited.
Application Deadline: September 10, 2026
Do you still have questions?
Contact info@authenticoperacompany.com