Masterclass: How to Create a Dramatic Opera Character
6–19 July 2026
Jelsa, Island of Hvar, Croatia
The Jelsa International Opera Academy 2026 is a unique educational programme designed for young opera singers, voice students, and professional artists who wish to further develop their vocal technique, musical interpretation, and stage performance.
Under the title “How to Create a Dramatic Opera Character,” the Academy brings together distinguished international opera artists and pedagogues who will guide participants through the process of creating a complete operatic character through individual coaching, workshops, and public performances. Special emphasis is placed on integrating vocal excellence, dramatic credibility, and emotional interpretation to achieve an authentic and compelling artistic performance.
Set in the beautiful town of Jelsa on the island of Hvar, the Academy offers an inspiring environment where art, culture, and the Mediterranean way of life come together to create ideal conditions for learning, creativity, and international collaboration. Renowned for its vibrant summer cultural programme, Jelsa provides the perfect stage for the artistic development of emerging opera performers.
Artistic Faculty
The programme is led by internationally acclaimed opera artists and music educators:
Klaudia Račić Derner, soprano – Creating an Operatic Character on Stage
Jana Juríčková, soprano – Vocal Coaching
Terezija Kusanović, mezzo-soprano – Vocal Coaching
Nicola Proksch, soprano – Vocal Coaching
Jan Martiník, bass – Vocal Coaching
Jelena Pavić, piano – Musical Coaching
Zulfizar Zázrivá, piano – Musical Coaching
Peter Dekrét, piano – Musical Coaching
Perica Mileta, choreographer – Stage Movement and Dance
Throughout the masterclass, a series of public concerts will be held at St. John’s Square (Trg sv. Ivana) in Jelsa, beginning each evening at 9:00 PM.
Concert Programme
9 July – Art Songs (Solo Songs)
12 July – Sacred Music
15 July – Popular Melodies
17 July – Opera Excerpts
The concerts are open to the public and offer audiences the opportunity to experience the work of young opera artists while enjoying the richness of opera and vocal music in the unique atmosphere of a Dalmatian town square.
