PROJECT:OPERA ­— a network of professional artists who gather to bring the magic of opera to the Isle of Wight and beyond ­— is looking for new members.

Project:Opera is inviting local students and amateur singers to join the Project:Opera chorus, with the view of supporting semi-staged opera and major choral work every year.

Project:Opera aims to be an opportunity for professional singers, musicians and artists to express themselves and support charity projects through opera.

The chorus will meet for weekly rehearsals in Ryde, every Friday in term time, learning operas in their native language.

Guidance will be provided by Project:Opera's professional artists, with a weekly fee to help cover rehearsal costs.

The programme for the upcoming season will feature Petite Messe Solennelle, by Gioachino Rossini, and Georges Bizet's Carmen.

The company will look to its chorus to cast minor roles and understudies.

For more information, and to submit an application, email annalisa.vaughan@gmail.com or contact 07757 965339.

Entries must be in by October 1.