Welsh National Opera Cenedlaethol Cymru Associate Artists programme offers recent graduates who have specialised in any strand of performance or vocal studies to develop their performance skills and career within a professional environment, under the guidance of WNO Associate Artist Development Coach, world-renowned Welsh soprano Rebecca Evans.
Alongside our Youth Opera, it is one of two programmes of work which provide quality performance and learning opportunities for the next generation of artists. Each year, our associates hold an intimate recital, where they perform a selection of their favourite repertoire.
Ross Fettes has been one of our Associate Artists, alongside Owain Rowlands, for 25/26. As his time with us comes to an end, we caught up on what the experience has taught him, and his hopes for the future.
Tell us how you came to be an opera singer, what drew you to the artform?
I came to opera quite unexpectedly. I started singing in my second to last year at school, having previously focused on playing the violin. I wanted to gain more musical experience and explore another side of performance, and singing quickly became something I was passionate about. I decided to audition for the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and I loved every minute of my 4 years there! What drew me to opera was the combination of music, storytelling and human emotion. There’s something incredibly powerful about being able to communicate through both words and music, and I was captivated by the scale and intensity of the artform. From that point on, I knew I wanted to pursue it seriously.
Why did you apply for the WNO Associate Artists programme?
Having already studied for 4 years at the Royal College of Music for my Masters and opera school, I knew I needed to take the next step with my career. I knew that Welsh National Opera has a supportive and inspiring environment, so I applied for the Associate Artists programme because I wanted to challenge myself further, learn from experienced professionals and refine my craft. The opportunity to work alongside talented colleagues while receiving guidance and support was something I couldn’t pass up.
What has been a defining moment of the WNO Associate Artists programme for you?
One of the defining aspects of the programme has been the confidence it has given me as a performer. Working closely with coaches, directors and fellow associate artist has pushed me outside of my comfort zone in the best possible way. Being encouraged to take risks, trust my instincts and fully commit to my performances has been invaluable. It’s helped me grow not only as a singer but also as a storyteller and colleague. Obviously being able to perform in my two favourite operas Tosca and The Flying Dutchman was an incredible experience!
What are you looking forward to the most about the WNO Associate Artists Recital?
I’m really looking forward to sharing the work we’ve been doing with an audience. Performing in a recital setting offers a wonderful opportunity to convey my passion for performing!
What can audiences expect from the performance?
Audiences can expect a varied and engaging programme that showcases my individuality as a performer. I’m excited to try my hand at some Welsh but there will also be some Scottish song and some opera as well!
How has being part of the Associates programme helped or changed you as a performer?
The programme has helped me become a more confident and self-assured performer. It has encouraged me to trust my abilities and embrace new challenges, both musically and dramatically. I’ve developed a greater understanding of how to communicate effectively with an audience and how to bring authenticity to the characters I portray. The support and mentorship I’ve received have had a lasting impact on my artistic development.
What do you hope comes next for your career?
I hope to continue building on the experiences I’ve had so far by taking on more challenging roles and expanding my repertoire. I want to keep pushing myself artistically and developing into the best performer I can be. Above all, I hope to continue sharing music with audiences, creating meaningful connections through performance and contributing to the artform that has given me so much. I’m excited to see where the next stage of my career will take me.
WNO is grateful for the generous support of Philip Carne MBE , the Shirley & Rolf Olsen Bursary, Sheila and Richards Brooks Bursary, Anthony Evans Scholarship, the Eira Francis Davies Bursary, Fidelio Charitable Trust, Joseph Strong Frazer Trust, Stanley Picker Trust, The Noël Coward Foundation, Thriplow Charitable Trust and the Chris Ball Bursary towards our WNO Associate Artist programme.
