Longwood Opera's Summer Season Opens July 10

will open its 22nd annual Summer Concert Series on Tuesday, July 10 with "An Evening of Opera."

Founded by Scott Brumit and John Balme in 1986, Longwood Opera provides a stage for local peformers to establish themselves as professional artists as well as entertainment for the community.

According to their website, longwoodopera.org, the group's mission is twofold:

"To prepare trained emerging singers for the next stage in their operatic careers by providing them with the opportunity to practice their art and to polish their performing skills in major roles before a live audience."

And,

"To foster appreciation for opera among individuals from all walks of life in the Greater Boston communities by offering high-quality, accessible and affordable operatic experiences."

The summer concerts are held on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at in Needham.

The 2012 series inclues:

• July 10, An Evening of Opera
• July 17, Broadway Melodies
• July 24, An Evening of Opera Scenes
• July 31, Presenting Rising Stars
• Aug. 7, An Evening of Gilbert and Sullivan
• Aug. 14, More Operatic Scenes
• Aug. 21, More Broadway Melodies
• Aug. 28, A Gala Night of Opera

Cost of admission is $8 for adults and $6 for seniors, students and children ages 10 and under. A Summer Season Pass is available and costs $50 for adults or $35 for seniors, students and children ages 10 and under.

Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope with payment for the tickets or passes desired to: Longwood Opera, 42 Hawthorn Ave., Needham, MA 02492-3806.

For more information about Longwood Opera, visit longwoodopera.org, call 781-455-0960 or e-mail encore@longwoodopera.org.