Friday, January 28, 2011

Marilyn Horne & Stephanie Blythe In Residence

"SUNY Potsdam is proud to welcome internationally-celebrated mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe '92 back to campus as a guest artist-in-residence at The Crane School of Music this coming week. The Metropolitan Opera star, who has been hailed as a 'once-in-a-generation opera singer' by the New York Times, will share her amazing talent and professional experience with Crane vocal students from Jan. 31 to Feb. 4. Select singers will receive individual coaching sessions with Blythe, while others will get the rare opportunity to take part in a masterclass with the acclaimed artist. She has served as a guest artist-in-residence several times, and starred in the world premiere of 'The
Sailor Boy and the Falcon,' alongside the student members of the award-winning Crane Opera Ensemble, in 2007. Additionally, Blythe has generously donated a special collection of American vocal music to the Crane Music Library. During her residency, Blythe will conduct two masterclasses with vocal students on stage at Sara M. Snell Music Theater. These sessions will be free and open to the public. Personal recording devices and photography will not be permitted, as they will interfere with the students' educational experience. The vocal masterclasses will be offered from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 1, and Wednesday, Feb. 2 in Snell Theater. To wrap up her week at the College, Blythe will join selected students in an intimate evening of song and socializing by hosting a 'Liederabend.' Both Crane students and Blythe herself will perform for a small group of friends at the College, in a special night celebrating art songs. This event is closed to the public." [Source]

"One of the greatest opera singers in the world, Marilyn Horne, will be at Oberlin Conservatory of Music from Feb. 18 to 22 to teach private lessons and a series of master classes to voice majors. The master classes are free and are open to the public in Finney Chapel on Feb. 18 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 20 at 2 p.m. The classes are also free for Artist Recital Series subscribers; general admission tickets are $5. Horne’s five-decade career in opera, recital and concert has been recognized all throughout the world for her unique mezzo-soprano coloratura. 'Marilyn Horne is an icon,' Dean of the Conservatory David H. Stull said. 'Her stature as a singer, secured by an astonishing performance career, is preserved not only by her discography but also by the legacy she has created as a teacher and mentor. We look forward to welcoming her back to Oberlin.' This memorable experience is possible due to the support of the Danenberg Residency Fund." [Source]