RESPIRER is an all-new alternative program developed by the Opéra de Montréal, in collaboration with the IRCM Post-COVID-19 Research Clinic (IPCO). The program was created and designed by Ariane Girard, a mezzo-soprano and the head voice teacher at the Atelier lyrique de l’Opéra de Montréal, with its content developed by mezzo-soprano and yoga instructor Charlotte Gagnon, who is also the program facilitator. RESPIRER is a virtual clinic for people who have had COVID-19, resulting in the development of respiratory complications and anxiety. The program is inspired by the English National Opera’s BREATHE program.
THE PROGRAM HAS BEEN RENEWED FOR A 2nd YEAR: JANUARY 24 TO MARCH 2, 2023
The program, open solely to patients of the IPCO clinic, offers a series of 12 one-hour workshops (two workshops per week), based on the breathing technique used by opera singers. It is free of charge and no prior singing experience is required. This program is not intended to serve as art therapy but is rather a new tool to help control intercostal muscles and the diaphragm, allowing participants to breathe deeper. The workshops are held via videoconference on the Zoom platform.