Another Successful Youth Opera Enrollment

On September 9th and 10th, Sarasota Youth Opera held another series of enrollment sessions exclusively for new members. In these sessions, new YO families were acquainted with the Sarasota Opera Company and the program .

The evening included an exciting tour of the opera house with Susan Reeves, the Theater Manager. The new singers and their families had the opportunity to see the atrium as well as the audience seating area. They then had the unique opportunity to stand on the main stage and tour the expansive Costume Shop, experiencing the Opera House from the "Backstage" perspective.





In addition to an introduction to the facilities, the orientation included a brief meeting with the Music Director, Maestro Michael Wittenburg, and the Youth Opera Coordinator Ms. Kate Gigliotti.

Overall the sessions were a huge success, allowing the new singers to explore the exciting possibilities that the Youth Opera offers.

For those still interested in joining Sarasota Youth Opera, please contact Kate Gigliotti via email or call (941) 366-8450, ext. 545.

Crooning in Chatauqua

This summer, Sarasota Youth Opera alum Kyle Gee had the unique opportunity to perform in the Chautauqua Institute Voice Program's productions of Puccini’s La bohème and Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro. In addition to his tenor roles as Parpignol (La bohème) and Don Curzio (Figaro), Gee performed several pieces in a recital of Mozart art songs, and was accompanied at the piano by Craig Rutenberg, of the Metropolitan Opera’s music staff.
Despite all of these engagements, Kyle had the time to continue his studies under Marlena Malas, known for her work with Susan Graham and Juan-Diego Florez (among others), and other coaches. On the visit of one of Ms. Malas’ previous students, tenor Neil Shicoff, Gee remarked, “I received three full lessons with him which changed my life!”
According to Kyle, Chautauqua has been a wonderful experience, in terms of both personal growth and vocal education. He looks forward to continuing his studies there next summer.
Congratulations Kyle! Sarasoa Youth Opera wishes you continued success and the best of luck.