"I feel inspired. It makes me want to do stuff. It makes me want to create music."
Focus group participant

AppRa

AppRa is a new digital resource for young people aged 11-16 years with the first set of films available to watch now. Through this programme we aim to enable young people to explore their creativity with Garsington Opera and other local arts organisations. 

The films can be experienced individually or collectively and teachers can also play them as part of lessons to show a different way of working. 

Watch this space for the next set of films.

Focus Groups

In making these films we have worked with three focus groups that have been integral to the development of AppRa. The groups have been with students at Millbrook Primary School and Cressex Community School in High Wycombe and with members of Garsington Opera's Youth Company. Here are some quotes from focus group participants:

"It gives me confidence to start something new."

"I like being part of the process of deciding what AppRa is." 

"If we weren't involved in the creation of AppRa, adults wouldn't understand what we want."

Watch the latest AppRa videos

Explore creative resources for young people aged 11-16. Click the button in the top right of the video to access the full playlist or choose from the latest uploads below. 

Monday Motivation

Digital workshops performed every Monday on YouTube. Each episode is themed around a different opera and includes a physical warm-up, singing and dancing. Karen Gillingham and team are joined by a special guest musician who performs live.  

Find our Digital Library here

Design Challenge

A professional stage designer shows you how to make sets, costumes and props based on an opera production, using simple craft materials that can be found around the home. Also includes information about the opera and tips about lighting and design.  

Find a Design Challenge here
Adult & Youth Opera Companies, Silver Birch 2017
Dance Warm-Up - Take part with Natasha Khamjani
An Intro to Composing - with Omar Shahryr
Dramatic Singing - take part in a workshop with Suzi Zumpe that explores singing with dramatic intention
Writing Sing Lyrics - Hazel Gould takes us through the process of writing song lyrics with a group of young people.