Destination:Opera was created by Jon Valender. Jon spent 20 years as an Opera Singer, and has now turned to producing to make Opera more accessible. Jon moved back to Dorset from Berlin just after the pandemic, and returned to teaching in both private and comprehensive schools across Dorset. Jon noticed the disparity in opportunities between private and comprehensive schools, especially in the music department, and the number of students involved with choir and orchestra had decreased. Jon wanted to bridge the gaps and provide opportunities for all children to get involved with music, opera and performing.
“I came to see Idomeneo with my cousins, including the youngest who is 9 years old. I was sceptical she would last the entire performance but we were all captivated to the very end…Destination:Opera made a potentially intimidating experience wholly accessible and engaging.
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