Young Patronesses of the Opera Inc

Overview The Young Patronesses of the Opera Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Miami, Florida. It was founded in 1956 and incorporated in 1984[3]. The organization primarily consists of over 200 volunteer women who work together to cultivate and promote an understanding and appreciation of opera, particularly among children in South Florida[2][5].

Mission The mission of the Young Patronesses of the Opera is to foster, sponsor, educate, and develop the taste and love of opera within the community. This is achieved through various programs focused on children's education and community engagement, aiming to build future generations of opera lovers and supporters[2][3].

Programs

Key Activities

• In-School Operas: YPO has been presenting professional performances of children's operas in local schools for over 40 years. These 30-minute operas are performed for almost 20,000 elementary students annually across 35-40 schools[2].

• Educational Materials: The "Opera Funtimes" educational booklets are designed by YPO members and provided free to schoolchildren. These materials tell the story of famous operas through poetry, activities, and games[2].

• Teacher Workshops: Each year, about 150 Miami-Dade County music teachers are trained to broaden children's exposure to opera in the classroom through workshops[2].

• Girl Scout Workshops: Over 200 Girl Scouts participate annually in workshops designed to help them earn an Opera Patch through lessons in music, dance, makeup, and staging[2].

• Voice Competition: YPO hosts a nationally recognized Voice Competition, providing significant financial prizes to assist young aspiring opera singers in their careers. Past winners have gone on to perform in prominent opera houses worldwide[1].

Impact and Legacy The Young Patronesses of the Opera have a significant impact on promoting opera education and fostering a love for classical music among children. Their programs not only enrich the educational experience for thousands of students but also contribute to the development of future opera enthusiasts and professionals. Additionally, the organization's Voice Competition has helped launch the careers of numerous talented opera singers, contributing to the global opera community.

Governance YPO operates with a structured board of directors. As of past records, the board has included chairpersons and members such as Lise-Marie Wertanzl and Marianne Kircher[3]. Governance practices include formal orientations and agreements for board members to ensure effective leadership and management.