Apprentice Artist; Chautauqua Opera & Conservatory​/Seasonal

Apprentice Artist (Chautauqua Opera Company & Conservatory)/Seasonal Employment

Job Category: Opera

Requisition Number: APPRE
004656

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• Posted :
  January 21, 2026
• Full-Time

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The Chautauqua Opera Company & Conservatory summer season will consist of fully produced productions, workshops and ancillary events. To learn more about the season and company, visit opera.chq.org. We build our season around the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) Safety Guidelines in addition to following the guidelines of the CDC, IATSE, and USA.

About Your Compensation

Compensation for this position is at the rate determined by our AGMA CBA; dues will be taken out and submitted to AGMA on your behalf.

A round-trip travel stipend is also provided.

Chautauqua Institution’s Referral Bonus Program is a talent solution to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce that encompasses all the skills and experience necessary to deliver on our goals and objectives. Chautauqua Institution will provide a $500 referral bonus (less taxes) for active employees referring a new candidate who is hired and remains employed for at least 90 days from the first physical date of work.

In the case of seasonal positions working less than 6 months, the new candidate must remain actively employed for at least 30 days from the first physical date of work and until the closing date of the season. The closing date of the season is the last Sunday in August.

• To perform as an Artist with the Chautauqua Opera Company & Conservatory and adhere to the daily schedule as determined from late June to early August.
• To sing the roles as assigned for mainstage performances and prepare all assignments in advance of arrival.
• To ARRIVE SCORE FREE for each mainstage performance opportunity on the first day of rehearsal.
• All scores will be sent in advance or purchased by the artist as detailed in their offer letter. Please note that the Artist may not mark on any materials provided by Chautauqua Opera Company & Conservatory with permanent ink of any variety, and all pencil markings must be erased prior to return of scores.
• To sing in all assigned ancillary events on the Chautauqua Institution grounds (both in-person and digitally) ranging from Opera Invasions, Recitals, Guild events, Masterclasses, Orchestra Concerts and Evening Programs as requested.
• To arrive on time for all rehearsals, coaching, events and fittings and with proper attire.
• To act as a representative of the company and our season on Social Media, on the grounds and through various interviews with reporters at the Chautauquan Daily.

About Your Schedule

Chautauqua Institution and Chautauqua Hotel Company offer flexible schedules, full and part-time, for seasonal employment during summer operations starting annually each June and concluding in August. Seasonal employment may be available earlier (pre-season) and beyond season (post-season) based on business needs and candidate availability. Schedules typically include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as a requirement.

While you will confirm your final schedule with management at the time of an interview and offer of employment, you should generally anticipate the following schedule options for this position:

Will be scheduled to work an average of 37.5-hours/week. Scheduled hours will include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.

Chautauqua Institution may provide limited housing options on our grounds or assist you with locating nearby housing arrangements for select opportunities based on business needs. Housing is not an option for many positions and may be of a cost to you. Candidates should assume there are no employer-provided or employer-assisted housing options available for this position unless it is otherwise stated.

This position offers employer-provided housing and parking. Housing includes a private bedroom and shared living space. Residency starts in late June and ends early August.

Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars of the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The Chautauqua community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities.

Chautauqua Institution owns and operates Chautauqua Hotel Company, a comprehensive hotel, food & beverage, conferencing, and events organization.

There are countless ways that our talent will engage with our mission, vision, and diverse communities, and you are invited to immerse yourself in our programming as a gateway to this experience. Employees will receive a traditional Chautauqua gate pass, free of cost, which provides access to many of our programs at the Amphitheater.