Celebrating Chautauqua Opera’s Former Young Artists
Every week, Chautauqua Opera is sharing the incredible work of our former Young Artists. Make sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date.
SarahAnn Duffy
This week we are highlighting 2023 Studio Artist SarahAnn Duffy!
While at Chautauqua SarahAnn sang Young Woman in the staged piano/vocal workshop of LOVE, LOSS AND THE CENTURY UPON US with music by Rene Orth and libretto by Jerre Dye. She also covered the role of Mrs. Lovett and sang in the Ensemble of SWEENEY TODD.
“My time at Chautauqua Opera was both exciting and deeply formative,” SarahAnn shared. “The highlight of my experience was working on the world premiere OF LOVE, LOSS, AND THE CENTURY UPON US. It was an unforgettable privilege to help bring a brand-new work to life alongside the composer Rene Orth, librettist Jerry Dye, and our fearless leader and conductor, Steve Osgood. Being part of the creative process from the very beginning made the entire journey feel incredibly meaningful and special.”
SarahAnn’s recent performances include her Carnegie Hall debut in the world premiere of Loretta Notareschi’s CLIMATE MASS with MidAmerica Productions and the New England Symphonic Ensemble. She returns to the Glimmerglass Festival this summer, singing Celeste 2 in SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE.
As we dive into the excitement of the summer season, we’re pressing pause on our Young Artist highlights – but don’t worry we’ll be back in September with more inspiring stores and talent to share!
Sarah Williams
This week we are highlighting 2006 Studio Artist Sarah Williams!
In her summer at Chautauqua Sarah sang the roles of Vittoria in THE GONDOLIERS and Suor Dolcina SUOR ANGELICA. Just before that season, while a student at Manhattan School of Music, Sarah sang the role of Anna in the first cast recording of Lee Hoiby’s A MONTH IN THE COUNTRY, conducted by our General and Artistic Director Steven Osgood!
“My favorite memory from my time at Chautauqua is the people I met, some of whom continue to play large roles in my life. And I remember having so much fun!” shared Sarah.
Sarah is now at the heart of Opera Philadelphia and their commitment to new work as their Director of New Works & Creative Producer. Since stepping into this leadership role, Sarah has helped transform Opera Philadelphia into an industry leader in commissioning and producing groundbreaking new operas — after nearly 30 years without a world premiere. Her projects have garnered widespread acclaim, including multiple Music Critics Association of North America Awards, Grammy nominations, and even the first American opera to win the Fedora Generali Prize.
Her passion for fostering new voices and pushing the boundaries of opera continues to inspire. In 2026 you can experience COMPLICATIONS IN SUE and SLEEPERS AWAKE with Opera Philadelphia thanks to Sarah’s dedication to new works.
Sarah Saturnino
This week we are highlighting 2018 Studio Artist Sarah Saturnino!
While at Chautauqua Sarah covered the role of Paquette and sang ensemble in CANDIDE, performed in the ensemble of DON GIOVANNI, and sang Kompanist in the Studio Artist Scenes Program.
Sarah shared, “Chautauqua was my first professional summer program right out of grad school. The opportunities I had and friends I made there have continued to follow me in my career! That’s one of the things I love most about opera, you never really leave your friends, you just see each other on the next project!”
You can hear Sarah sing next as Maddalena in RIGOLETTO with LA Opera and as Fricka in DIE WALKÜRE with Santa Fe Opera.
Lauren Yokabaskas
This week we are highlighting 2019 Apprentice Artist Lauren Yokabaskas!
While at Chautauqua Lauren sang the roles of Roxanne Conti in ¡FIGARO! (90210), Rosina in THE GHOSTS OF VERSAILLES, and the world premiere composition ‘When I’m Away from You, I Feel Like the Second-Place Winner in a Bee-Wearing Contest’ by Composer-in-Residence, Gilda Lyons.
“My experience at Chautauqua couldn’t have been more positive,” shared Lauren. “I learned what it meant to rise to a professional challenge and to be held by a team that made every production detail a work of care and intention. That spirit of collaboration and excellence continues to shape who I am today as an administrator.”
In 2021, Lauren co-founded Opera in the Pines, a Maine-based alternative opera company dedicated to reimagining the opera experience through intimate, site-specific performances. Since their 2022 debut, the company has delivered critically acclaimed, sold-out productions, including The Diary of Anne Frank, Bar Crawl Bohème, and The Crucible, while championing Maine artists and broadening access to opera for diverse audiences. Last weekend, they presented The Barber of the Cape, a Maine-centric reimagining of The Barber of Seville, set at the Cape Neddick Lobster Pound.
In addition to her role as General Director at Opera in the Pines, Lauren has worked with Music Academy of the West, Palm Beach Opera, and The Glimmerglass Festival since making a career transition to arts administration. This summer, Lauren will serve as the Assistant Director of the Rehearsal Department at The Santa Fe Opera.
Daniela Mack
This week we are highlighting 2006 Studio Artist Daniela Mack!
Daniela spent one summer as a young artist at Chautauqua Opera, before moving on to the Merola Opera Program and Adler Fellowship at San Francsico Opera. During her summer at Chautauqua, Daniela sang the role of a sister in SUOR ANGELICA and was in the choruses of VANESSA, THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO, THE GONGOLIERS and SUOR ANGELICA. She was featured in Opera Scenes as Angelina in LA ENERENTOLA and Thérèse in THÉRÈSE RAQUIN while also singing in a Cole Porter cabaret concert and recital at the Athenaeum Hotel.
Daniela shared that “Chautauqua was one of my earliest professional experiences as a young singer. It was a unique and inspiring setting for creativity. The supportive coaches and staff created a nurturing environment and encouraged all of us to test our limits. I made several lifelong friends during my time there, and I have nothing but wonderful memories of my summer as a studio artist.”
Her recent appearances include: : Lorca in AINADAMAR (Golijov) with Los Angeles Opera; Angela in THE LISTENERS (Mazzoli/Vavrek) with Lyric Opera of Chicago; Maffio Orsini in LUCREZIA BORGIA (Donizetti) with Teatro dell’Opera di Roma; Lorca in AINADAMAR with the Metropolitan Opera; Rosmira in PARTENOPE (Handel) with San Francisco Opera; Mezzo in EL NIÑO (Adams) with the Metropolitan Opera; Bradamante in ALCINA (Handel) with Teatro de la Maestranza; Frida Kahlo in EL ÚLTIMO SUEÑO DE FRIDA Y DIEGO (Frank) with Los Angeles Opera and San Francisco Opera
Right now Daniela is singing Lorca in AINADAMAR (Golijov) with Los Angeles Opera, and in June you can hear her as Idamante in IDOMENEO (Mozart) with San Francisco Opera. The 2025/25 season will bring appearances as Rosina in IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA (Rossini) with Opera Omaha; Megacle in L’OLIMPIADE (Cimarosa) with La Cetra Barockorchester; Frida Kahlo in EL ÚLTIMO SUEÑO DE FRIDA Y DIEGO (Frank) with Lyric Opera of Chicago; Rosina in IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA (Rossini) with Houston Grand Opera. She will also be Master Teacher with the FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY and a Soloist in Fall Concert with San Francisco Opera.
Cristina María Castro
This week we are highlighting 2019 Studio Artist Cristina María Castro!
During her summer at Chautauqua, Cristina María sang the role of Gossip 1 in THE GHOSTS OF VERSAILLES. She also covered the roles of Florestine in THE GHOSTS OF VERSAILLES, and Susanna in ¡FIGARO! (90210).
“My summer at is filled with such fond memories. The supportive, creatively charged environment nurtured both my artistry and my confidence, preparing me to step into the next phase of my professional life with more clarity and purpose. I’m so grateful for the meaningful connections I made with fellow artists—relationships that sparked new projects and opened doors to exciting creative opportunities,” Cristina María shared of her time at Chautauqua.
Recently, she created the role of Sunny in the world premiere of Laura Kaminsky and David Cote’s LUCIDITY with On Site Opera and Seattle Opera, as well as Johanna in SWEENEY TODD with Opera Montana.
Cristina María is currently singing Maria in WEST SIDE STORY with Indianapolis Opera. After that you can hear Cristina María sing Frasquita in CARMEN with St. Petersburg Opera in June, and Susanna in LE NOZZE DI FIGARO with Northern Lights Music Festival in July.
Fun fact: “I’m performing West Side Story with Eric Botto as my Tony” shared Cristina María. Eric is a Chautauqua alum and artist in our upcoming season!
Rachel Blaustein
This week we are highlighting 2013 Studio Artist Rachel Blaustein!
During her summer at Chautauqua, Rachel performed in the chorus of PETER GRIMES and covered the role of Nannetta in FALSTAFF.
“I am so grateful for Chautauqua as it was the very first company to take a chance on me professionally. It was my first job in the opera world, and I will never forget that summer!” Rachel shared about her time at Chautauqua.
Since then, Rachel’s career has continued to soar! Recently, she performed the role of Jocelyn Jordan in THE MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE with Austin Opera and sang the title role in RUSALKA with Pacific Opera Project.
You can hear Rachel sing next week at Carnegie Hall as a soloist in the world premiere of Erica Kyree Glenn’s WORLDWIDE REQUIEM. Other upcoming performances include Hodel in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, serving as a Singer Fellow at the Ravinia Steans Music Institute, and cover for Alice Ford in FALSTAFF (Salieri) at Chicago Opera Theater.
Brennan Martinez
This week we are highlighting 2024 Apprentice Artist Brennan Martinez!
During her summer at Chautauqua, Brennan sang the role of Hansel in HANSEL AND GRETAL. She also covered the roles of Young Woman in LOVE, LOSS AND THE CENTURY UPON US, and Angie in PEPITO.
“The Chautauqua Opera Company is full of passionate artists who want the industry to thrive. You feel this passion and creativity flowing at every rehearsal and performance,” Brennan shared of her time at Chautauqua.
Recently, Brennan has sung the roles of Lily Craven in THE SECRET GARDEN at Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre, Third Nymph in RUSALKA at Milwaukee Opera Theatre, and Aldonza in MAN OF LA MANCHA at Piedmont Opera. Next month Brennan will reprise her role as Hansel in HANSEL AND GRETEL at Opera Montana and she will be a Festival Artist at Opera Saratoga this summer.
Chandler Johnson
This week we are highlighting 2018 Studio Artist Chandler Johnson!
Chandler joined the artistic staff of The Santa Fe Opera in 2021 as the Artistic Associate, and now he serves as the Director of the Apprentice Program for Singers at The Santa Fe Opera.
During his summer at Chautauqua, Chandler covered the roles of Governor, Vanderdendur and Ragotski in CANDIDE; sang in the choruses of CANDIDE and Don GIOVANNI; and performed in the Opera Scenes program as Nathanael in LES CONTES D’HOFFMANN, Edgar in EDGAR; and Sam in SUSANNAH
“My time as a Studio Artist at Chautauqua Opera was such an amazing experience,” Chandler shared. “I got to work with incredible professionals, grow as an artist, and really push myself in new ways. It was the perfect blend of learning and performing, and I felt so lucky to be part of such a supportive, creative community.”
In addition to his role at Santa Fe Opera, this year Chandler will be Artist in Residence at Binghamton University, Judge for the 2025 Fort Worth Opera McCammon Voice Competition, Member of the Screening Jury for the 2025 Queen Sonja Singing Competition, Guest Panelist for Mannes OperaCon 2025, and Judge for The Cooper-Bing Competition at Opera Columbus.
Rolfe Dauz
This week we are highlighting 2022 Festival Artist Rolfe Dauz!
While at Chautauqua, Rolfe sang the roles of Faiz in THUMBPRINT and Brother of Indiana Elliot in THE MOTHER OF US ALL.
“My summer at CHQ was pivotal and transformative,” Rolfe shared. “At that time, we were all still crawling out of the pandemic, where many of us were trying to figure out how to go about our lives and careers. CHQ helped me do that, and I am deeply grateful for all the support received that summer.”
Rolfe’s recent performances include Der Lautsprecher in DER KAISER VON ATLANTIS with New World Symphony; Escamillo in CARMEN with Virginia Opera and he received an Audience Choice Award at the 2025 Fort Worth Opera McCammon Voice Competition.
You can see Rolfe next as Curio in Hudson Hall’s production of Handel’s GIULIO CESARE which opens on April 19. Other upcoming engagements include Escamillo in Bizet’s CARMEN with Florentine Opera, May 2025; and Larry Itliong in Nicolas Lell Benavides and Marella Martin Koch’s new opera DOLORES at West Edge Opera, August 2025.
Joseph Canuto Leon
At Chautauqua, Joseph played the Father in HANSEL AND GRETEL and was a Baritone soloist in the 2024 Pops Concert.
“I LOVED my time at Chautauqua,” shared Joseph. “We had a very special group of singers and staff that summer that not only helped me grow as an artist, but as a person. That particular group of young artists will always be special to me, and a highlight was the CSO concert, where everyone got to shine bright for a huge audience.”
Recent performances include Father in HANSEL UND GRETEL (auf Deutsch!) with Wichita Grand Opera, GIORGIO GERMONT with Vero Beach Opera, and next week brings his debut as Morales in CARMEN in Florida Grand Opera’s new production, on April 12, 13, 15, 24, and 26!
Thomas Lehman
At Chautauqua, Thomas played the Hairdresser’s Assistant in MANON LESCAUT as well as Marcello in Opera Scenes.
“Chautauqua was an incredibly inspiring and informative place which nurtured growth and introduced me to teaching artists like Michael Chioldi who believed in my talent,” Thomas shared.
In the last few months, Thomas has sung his role debut as Verdi’s MACBETH at the Deutsche Oper Berlin, the Father in HANSEL AND GRETEL at the Royal Ballet and Opera in London, Kurwenal in TRISTAN UND ISOLDE with the Belgrade Philharmonic, and will soon perform Guglielmo in COSÌ FAN TUTTE at Detroit Opera and the lead role in Unsuk Chin’s world premiere THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON at Hamburg State Opera.
Timothy Breese Miller
This week we’re highlighting former Studio Artist Timothy Breese Miller, who spent 3 summers at CHQ at the start of his career!
At CHQ in the studio in 1984 Timothy played the dead Buoso in Gianni Schicchi and a Muleteer in Man of La Mancha. In 1985 he performed the Master of Ceremonies in Guys and Dolls, The Registrar in Madame Butterfly, and Officer Murphy in Street Scene. Timothy returned as an apprentice in 1987 to play El Gallo in The Fantasticks, The Prince in Romeo and Juliet, Snug the Joiner in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and the opera scenes program.
Timothy shares: “Chautauqua Opera was pivotal to my opera career. I worked with so many wonderful, creative people! In 1985 after my second year in the CHQ studio Gary Magby invited me to apprentice for a year with the Greater Miami Opera and following my year in 1987 as an apprentice John Demain invited me to audition for a leading role in the premiere of the Philip Glass opera The Making of the Representative for Planet 8 at Houston Grand Opera. I got the role and it was my big break! In 1989 I went on to the Young Artist Program at the Vienna State Opera, then Raoul in Phantom of the Opera in both Vienna and Hamburg, and for the last 25 years I have been in the chorus at The Metropolitan Opera. At the end of this season I will have performed over 3,000 times at the Met!”
Ethan DePuy
This week we’re highlighting 2013 Studio Artist Ethan DePuy! As a young artist at Chautauqua, Ethan graced our mainstage in the featured role of Dr. Caius in Falstaff. Reflecting on his time here, Ethan shares: “Chautauqua was a safe place to learn and take risks as a young professional. I will never forget important lessons taught to me by Jay Lesenger (“Ethan – Comedy is CLARITY.”) and Michael Chioldi (“Always be ready backstage. Be as close as you can to being on stage without actually being on stage.”) which I still use today.” Recently Ethan has performed various roles in a double bill of the Gershwins’ Of Thee I Sing and Let ‘Em Eat Cake! with Odyssey Opera and was nominated for a BroadwayWorld Award for Best Supporting Performer in a Play for The Manic Monologues with Moonbox Productions. Apart from performing, much of Ethan’s time is devoted to training the next generation of singers as an Instructor of Voice at Concord Academy and the Holden Voice Program at Harvard University.
Sarah Heltzel
This week we’re highlighting 2006 Apprentice Artist, Sarah Heltzel!
As a young artist at Chautauqua, Sarah graced our mainstage in incredible roles, including Cherubino in The Marriage of Figaro, the Monitor in Suor Angelica, and covering Erika in Vanessa. Reflecting on her time here, Sarah shares: “My summer at Chautauqua I met some lifelong friends and shared the stage with stars both current and future. It was an intense operatic summer camp!”
Catch Sarah this weekend as she takes the stage as Desirée in A Little Night Music with St. Pete Opera, performing March 7–11!
Up next, Sarah ships out to Boston to perform Mrs. Mullin in Carousel with Boston Lyric Opera!
Aaron Theno
This week, we’re featuring Aaron Theno, a 2004 Young Artist! During his 8 weeks at Chautauqua, Aaron performed in Susannah (Man #1), covered Lazar Wolf in Fiddler on the Roof, sang chorus in all three mainstage productions, and participated in our Opera Scenes program, along with performing in our Afternoon of Song recital series. Aaron reflects on his time in the program: “It was transformative in so many ways both personally and professionally…My memories of that summer are innumerable. We had such a great group of super-talented, rowdy, quirky young artists, and I we had a lot of fun together.” Aaron continues to perform as a bass-baritone – including most recently as Bass Soloist in Bard SummerScape’s Le Prophete in 2024 and sharing an evening of Irving Berlin’s works at Manhattan’s Luxembourg House, Berlin’s former residence.
Aaron is also the founder of Breatherapy: “We manufacture and sell our patented aromatherapy inhalation patches to consumers, as well as hospitals and clinics looking to improve their patient experiences.”
Max Potter
This week, we’re excited to celebrate the incredible Max Potter, a 2020 and 2022 Young Artist! Max first joined us during our virtual COVID season, creating digital performances that were shared with summer patrons across the U.S.
“Waiting for the Song” from IN OUR SILENCE:
Max returned in 2022 as an Apprentice Artist, taking on roles such as Jenny Reefer and covering Anne in The Mother of Us All, as well as performing Ruthie and Elenita in The House on Mango Street.
Max shares: “Both of my summers at Chautauqua made a huge impact on me as an artist! The year that we were on-line because of COVID gave me a sense of purpose when it was so easy to be scared, and I felt such a strong bond with my fellow young artists even though we were spread across the country. I was so excited to be invited back for the in-person season because I had the chance to work with and learn from the amazing music staff. So many things they taught me still stick with me today when I am preparing a role and performing. I am so grateful for my time at this amazing, historic program filled with supportive administrators and colleagues!”
Max’s recent roles include Octavian in Der Rosenkavalier with Pacific Northwest Opera and the alto soloist in Mendelssohn’s Elijah at the Washington National Cathedral. This year, Max will take the stage as the mezzo soloist in Verdi’s Messa da Requiem with the San Luis Obispo Master Chorale. And this weekend, don’t miss Max as Cherubino in Le nozze di Figaro with Opera Santa Barbara!
We’re also excited to shout out Max’s new venture, Digitelle (@digitelleco), where she and her team teach digital marketing & social media workshops for artists and arts organizations! In their first year, they taught at prestigious programs like San Francisco Opera’s Merola and Jennifer Rowley’s Aria Bootcamp, and have workshops planned at the Netherlands Lyric Opera Festival and Operaworks in the upcoming year!
Be sure to check out Max’s website to stay up to date on her journey!
Courtney Miller
This week we’re featuring former Young Artist Courtney Miller! As a Studio Artist in 2011, Courtney performed Rosina from The Barber of Seville in our popular scenes program and sang chorus in Luisa Miller. Returning in 2012 as an Apprentice Artist, she performed Alisa in Lucia di Lammermoor and Madrigali in Manon Lescaut, and was a soloist in “Water Matters – Operatically” with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra.
Says Courtney of her time at Chautauqua: “I loved both summers I spent at Chautauqua Opera. Chautauqua gave me my first AGMA principal contract, I made life-long friends, and I still keep in touch with my ‘Opera Parents.’ It was such a unique experience and I took every opportunity I could to go see the ballet, theater, or guest artists perform — it was truly an artists’ utopia. I adore performing art song and musical theater, in addition to opera, and I was grateful to have opportunities to do a little bit of everything during my summers. I continue to perform in all three areas and know that the work I did at CHQ positively influences the art song cabarets that I create. And I still hear Jay’s voice every time I even think of making an unmotivated arm gesture: Reach for her — you love her!”
Courtney’s recent roles include Marcellina in Le nozze di Figaro with Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera, Warren’s Wife in The Handmaid’s Tale with San Francisco Opera, the Alto Soloist in Mendelssohn’s Elijah with the SF Choral Sociey, and Berta in The Barber of Seville with Opera San José. Recently, she also curated a solo art song cabaret, “Tell me the truth about love,” which highlighted works by femme and queer artists.
Courtney has a busy season ahead, performing as the mezzo soloist in the Filoli Ballroom Performance Series with Opera San Jose in March, the alto soloist in the world premiere of Fred Cohen’s “Nizkor – A Journey of Remembrance” in May, and as Elmire in Tartuffe with Pocket Opera in June.
This Valentine’s Day weekend, catch her as Teresa in La Sonnambula with West Bay Opera, which runs February 14–23!
Be sure to check out Courtney’s website to keep up to date on all of her amazing engagements!
Helena Brown
This week we’re celebrating 2014 Studio Artist Helena Brown and her career as an artist and advocate! Helena is a full-time chorus member of the Metropolitan Opera, where she recently debuted several roles, including Lucia in Terence Blanchard’s Grammy-winning, Champion, and First Mother in Dead Man Walking, among others. She also covered and sang the role of Mrs. Dickson in Lincoln Center Theater’s pre-pandemic performances of Ricky Ian Gordon and Lynn Nottage’s Intimate Apparel, conducted by Chautauqua Opera’s Artistic Director Steven Osgood.
During her time at Chautauqua, Helena covered Mama McCourt in The Ballad of Baby Doe and also sang the aunt in Madama Butterfly, in addition to showcasing her talents in the Opera Scenes and Young Artist showcase. Reflects Helena: “for scenes, I really got my feet wet and showed off the full emerging beauty of my chest voice with the big Jezibaba scene in Rusalka and, for contrast, sang a familiar tune, ‘Tale as Old as Time,’ from Beauty and the Beast for a young artist showcase called Alice and Alex in Opera Land.”
Helena’s influence also extends beyond performance to arts and union advocacy. She serves as a Vice President on the board of the American Guild of Musical Artists, and as an Advisory Director on the Metropolitan Opera board of directors. Her extensive contributions have been noted in industry publications, such as Classical Singer Magazine (“Helena Brown: Authenticity and Advocacy”) and by higher education institutions. Recently, she was awarded an honorary doctorate from Hollins University, where she also served as the guest speaker for their 2024 commencement ceremony (“Grammy Award-Winning Classical Singer and Hollins Alumna to Address 182nd Commencement Exercises”).
“I have been fortunate to work with Helena several times since her summer at Chautauqua.” reflects General and Artistic Director Steven Osgood. “She was an invaluable member of the ensemble for Intimate Apparel before the COVID shut-down, and went on as a cover to give a thrilling performance as Mrs. Dickson. It has been wonderful to collaborate with her several times at the Met as well. To also see her move into arts and union advocacy has been truly inspiring.”
Read more about Helena’s incredible journey and career:
Helena Brown: Authenticity and Advocacy
Grammy Award-Winning Classical Singer and Hollins Alumna to Address 182nd Commencement Exercises
Luke Harnish
This week we’re featuring 2022 Studio Artist, baritone Luke Harnish! Luke’s recent performances include Gandalf in The Hobbit with Sarasota Opera and the Messenger in La Traviata with The Santa Fe Opera, where he was also a two-time Apprentice Artist.
While at Chautauqua, Luke took on roles in Tosca (The Jailer) and The Mother of Us All (Henry B.) and also participated in our recital series. Luke reflects on his experience: “My time at Chautauqua was pivotal in deepening my artistry as a singing actor. As my first contract after graduate school, it provided invaluable insight into navigating life as an emerging artist. I’m deeply grateful for the connections I made there and feel fortunate to continue collaborating with many of the friends and colleagues I met that summer.”
“As a Studio Artist, Luke was omnipresent in our 2022 season,” says General and Artistic Director Steven Osgood. “Along with his roles in Tosca and The Mother of Us All, it was wonderful to watch him shine in his Afternoon of Song recital, and our Opera Invasion series. Chautauqua got to see the breadth of Luke’s work, and it has been no surprise to see him excel in the past three years.”
What’s next for Luke? He’s gearing up for a busy spring and summer! He’ll perform as the Doctor in Macbeth with The Atlanta Opera in March and Sciarrone in Tosca with The Glimmerglass Festival in their 2025 summer season. Catch him this weekend as Dick Deadeye in H.M.S. Pinafore with Nashville Opera!
Follow Luke’s journey and learn more here: https://www.lukeharnish.com/.
Omar Najmi
This week, we’re excited to feature tenor and 2017 Studio Artist Omar Najmi! In addition to his singing career, Omar is also a prolific composer. His new opera Mud Girl, created in collaboration with librettist Christine Evans, will premiere this weekend as part of Washington National Opera’s American Opera Initiative. Don’t miss the chance to learn more about this exciting new work and see a behind-the-scenes preview here:
As a singer, Omar has recently showcased his talents with prestigious ensembles such as Boston Baroque and the Seattle Symphony, where he performed as the tenor soloist in Handel’s Messiah. He also brought life to roles such as Mr. Herz in Mozart in the Museum with Anchorage Opera and Valcour in The Anonymous Lover with Boston Lyric Opera. Omar’s upcoming season features performances as Peter Quint in The Turn of the Screw at the Spoleto Festival, Simon in Adoration with LA Opera/Beth Morrison Projects, and Enoch Snow in Carousel with Boston Lyric Opera. He is also a Grammy nominee this year for his contributions to Danaë Xanthe Vlasse’s album Mythologies II.
As a studio artist, Omar’s assignments included roles and covers in every mainstage production of the season, including Don Pasquale, L’Orfeo, and Hydrogen Jukebox. Reflecting on his experience, Omar shares, “Chautauqua will always hold a special place in my heart – in part because Chautauqua just is a special place, but also in part because it was the final Young Artist Program I ever did before embarking full-time on a professional career in opera. My time at Chautauqua, through its nurturing environment, my wildly talented colleagues, and the heavy focus on regular performance equipped me to make the leap from the young artist cocoon to the multifaceted life in opera I currently enjoy.”
Stay connected with Omar’s inspiring journey and follow his continued success by visiting his website:
Ryan Stoll
This year, we’re continuing to honor the incredible talent that has passed through the doors of Chautauqua Opera, and we’re starting the year off strong with 2016 Studio Artist Ryan Stoll!
While a Young Artist at Chautauqua, Ryan covered roles in both mainstage season productions (Barone Duphol, Servant, and Dottore Grenvil in La traviata; the title role in The Mikado) and also performed in the Opera Scenes showcase. Like many of our Young Artists, Ryan also had the opportunity to work on contemporary opera, performing in the vocal ensemble of Missy Mazzoli and Royce Vavrek’s Song from the Uproar. Reflecting on the experience, Ryan shared, “working on Song from the Uproar was great and helped spark a passion for new opera that I have been fortunate enough to continue throughout my career.”
Now based in Oldenburg, Germany, Ryan performs regularly at the Oldenburgisches Staatstheater, where his recent roles include Charlie in the world premiere of Russel Hepplewhite’s The Crash, Maestro Spinelloccio in Gianni Schicchi, and Ariodate in Handel’s Xerxes. This season, he will sing the role of Der Adler in Walter Braunfels’ opera, Die Vögel, premiering with Oldenburgisches Staatstheater on January 25.
Ryan shared, “Chautauqua was one of my first professional engagements as a young singer. It was a lot of work, but what I remember the most was how well supported I felt at all times.”
We are so proud to support our Young Artists and watch their journeys unfold! Be sure to check back each week as we shine a spotlight on more exceptional alumni, celebrating their inspiring careers, milestones, and achievements.
Teresa Perrotta
This week we’re highlighting Young Artist alumna, Teresa Perrotta! In 2018, Teresa began her professional opera journey with Chautauqua Opera as a Studio Artist, where her assignments included singing Ensemble in Don Giovanni, performing a raucous cast of characters as an ensemble member in Candide, and singing the title role in our Opera Scenes’ presentation of Susannah.
Teresa’s time as a Studio Artist also gave her the opportunity to cover major roles, including Donna Anna in Don Giovanni, which she has now just performed as a mainstage artist in Opera Omaha’s October 2024 production!
“Chautauqua was my first professional job in opera and where I learned my first Mozart role, which was pivotal to my career. The lessons from that summer still shape the artist I am today.”
What’s next for Teresa? She’s set to make her Metropolitan Opera debut this Friday, December 13th, as First Lady in The Magic Flute!
“I first heard Teresa when she was still a student at CCM, and was thrilled that we snagged her as a Studio Artist in 2018,” says General and Artistic Director Steven Osgood. “It was exciting to watch her dig into her cover assignment and see how perfect a fit Donna Anna was for her voice. Her steady climb through the Young Artist programs at Santa Fe, Washington National Opera and Glimmerglass has not been surprising. I got to spend an exciting week working with her in 2023 when she won the Met competition, and count myself lucky to have been in the audience when she brought down the house with arias by Massenet and Mozart.”
Be sure to check out Teresa’s website to follow all of her amazing accomplishments!
Brian Jeffers
It’s time to shine a spotlight on another exceptional Young Artist Alumna! With his impressive range, tenor Brian Jeffers has been captivating Chautauqua audiences since 2019. Brian first joined Chautauqua Opera as a Studio Artist, where he took on roles in Il barbiere di Siviglia, ¡Figaro 90210!, and The Ghosts of Versailles. In 2023, Brian returned as an Apprentice Artist, delivering standout performances as Beadle in Sweeney Todd and Lillas Pastia in La tragédie de Carmen.
Recently, Brian showcased his talents as Count Barigoule in Viardot’s Cendrillon with Knoxville Opera, earning praise for his performance: “the right mix of comic boldness to go with a fine voice in the role of Barigoule.” (Arts Knoxville).
Looking ahead, Brian has several exciting engagements on the horizon. This February, he will make his debut with Opera Omaha as Sellem in Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress. This summer, he will return to the stage in Opera Omaha’s production of Fantastic Mr. Fox, portraying the Burrowing Mole alongside fellow Young Artist Alumni Kelly Guerra.
Reflecting on his time at Chautauqua, Brian shares:
“Being a young artist at Chautauqua has been so formative for my artistic growth. I was able to learn and solidify career roles and techniques in such a supportive and professional environment. I now get to work as a solo artist with so many tools that have made me a confident performer. And it has been such an honor to still work with so many CHQ friends and colleagues today.”
Don’t miss the chance to see Brian live – visit brianjefferstenor.com for upcoming performances!
Yazid Gray
It’s time for another Young Artist Alumni highlight! This week, we’re featuring baritone Yazid Gray! Described as a “force of nature” by The Chautauqua Daily, Yazid spent three summers as a Young Artist at Chautauqua Opera, leaving an indelible mark.
Yazid’s first summer spent at Chautauqua was in 2019 as a Studio Artist, where he took on a full slate of assignments. He sang chorus in Corigliano’s The Ghosts of Versailles and covered Paul Conti in ¡Figaro! (90210). Yazid also performed in two renditions of Il Barbiere di Siviglia: singing Fiorello in Rossini’s well-known classic, and also performing Figaro in a bilingual adaptation for young audiences, The Barber of Seville in California, as part of our Arts Education and Family Entertainment Series.
In 2020, Yazid returned as an Apprentice Artist, contributing as a collaborator and performer in our virtual production of In Our Silence, a collection of songs composed after conducting interviews with each of the 2020 Chautauqua Opera Young Artists. Listen to Yazid perform “This is not the end” by composer Frances Pollock and playwright and librettist Jerre Dye:
In 2021, Yazid was back at Chautauqua for a final season as a Young Artist, performing in our popular production of As the Così Crumbles.
Reflecting on his tine in the program, Yazid shares, “my time at CHQ really taught me how to step into my own as an artist and gave me the room to take risks.”
Catch Yazid’s this holiday season as the bass soloist in Handel’s Messiah with the South Dakota Symphony!
“It has been thrilling to watch Yazid’s growth as a singer since he first joined us in 2019,” says General and Artistic Director Steven Osgood. “The adaptation of “Caro nome” that he and composer Jasmine Barnes created was a highlight of our 2021 season. And we were extremely grateful when Yazid returned last summer to appear at the Chautauqua Opera Guild’s Gala Benefit. His performances, once again in the Athenaeum Parlor, brought tears to everyone’s eyes.”
Alexis Peart
Today, we’re thrilled to highlight Alexis Peart, an extraordinary talent whose journey from Chautauqua Opera’s Young Artist Program to stages and leadership roles across the country exemplifies the remarkable growth and artistry fostered within Chautauqua Institution!
As a 2023 Studio Artist at Chautauqua Opera, Alexis captivated audiences with her powerful and expressive performances. Along with covering Carmen in La tragédie de Carmen and singing Ensemble in Sweeney Todd, she also shared her voice in our Afternoon of Song recital series and our popular Opera Invasions.
Reflecting on her time at Chautauqua, Alexis shares, “Chautauqua was a beautiful and inspiring place that allowed me to focus deeply on my craft and elevate my career. I’m grateful for the kindness and support I received and for the incredible colleagues I met, including collaborators from the audition process whom I continue to work with today. I’ll always cherish the memories made there.”
Since her time at Chautauqua, Alexis’s career has blossomed with notable performances and leadership roles. This weekend, she takes the stage as the alto soloist in Handel’s Messiah with the Columbus Symphony, under the baton of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra’s own Rossen Milanov! Currently, she is an Emerging Artist with the Boston Lyric Opera, where she performed the role of Arbate in Mozart’s Mitridate, re di Ponto, and will originate the role of The Choreographer in Anthony Roth Costanzo and Sarah Ruhl’s visionary interpretation of Vivaldi’s The Seasons. Additional roles this season include Hansel in Opera Stores: Hansel and Gretel and Mrs. Noah in Britten’s Noah’s Flood.
Beyond her remarkable performances, Alexis has also taken on significant leadership roles in the field. She serves as the Director of Administration for the Beth Morrison Project Producer Academy and is an Associate Producer for Beth Morrison Projects, contributing to the development of new and innovative works in the operatic landscape.
Her impressive career trajectory continues next year as she joins the prestigious Ryan Opera Center at the Lyric Opera of Chicago in the 2025–2026 season.
To follow her upcoming engagements, be sure to visit alexispeart.com.
Chelsea Friedlander
It’s time for another Young Artist Alumni Highlight! This week, we’re saluting 2017 Apprentice Artist Staff Sergeant Chelsea Friedlander! A talented soprano (who clearly took her role study as Marie in The Daughter of the Regiment seriously), SSG Friedlander joined The U.S. Army Chorus in 2023 and has since performed at incredible venues like The White House, The Pentagon, Solo July 4th National Anthem at National Stadium, and The Supreme Court, singing for leaders such as President Biden and Vice President Harris! She also recently debuted with Pershing’s Own Klezmer Band on mission in West Point, NY.
As a Chautauqua Opera Young Artist, Chelsea’s role assignments included Euridice in Respighi/Monteverdi’s L’Orfeo (as seen above with Guest Artist Danny Belcher) and Soprano 1 in Glass’ Hydroden Jukebox. Says Chelsea, “Looking back, singing at Chautauqua Opera was a true highlight of my operatic career! Working alongside Steven Osgood and such esteemed Young Artists was a thrill! Singing the role of Soprano 1 in Hydrogen Jukebox was one of the most challenging roles I have sung to date and extremely rewarding. Having learned and performed such a difficult piece, it truly showed me I can achieve anything! When I had difficult days in Basic Training, I did think many times of the complexity of the role and, if I could sing that, I could accomplish anything!”
“Chelsea was an Apprentice Artist in my second season as General and Artistic Director, and played critical roles in the summer’s two biggest adventures– Philip Glass’ Hydrogen Jukebox, and Respighi’s radical realization of Monteverdi’s L’Orfeo,” says Steven Osgood. “Throughout the summer she showed the strong drive, focus and determination which I am sure have carried her through the past 18 months with the US Army Chorus. It has been a thrill to watch from afar as she finished basic training and stepped into a year of extraordinary performing opportunities!”
With a versatile range, Chelsea’s has dazzled audiences in opera, operetta, musical theater, and choral works. Recent role highlights include Cunégonde in Candide (Light Opera of NJ, Angels Vocal Arts), Marie in The Daughter of the Regiment (Light Opera of NJ), Adele in Die Fledermaus (Opera in the Ozarks), Mabel in Pirates of Penzance (Winter Opera St. Louis, Ohio Light Opera), Olympia in Tales of Hoffmann (Nashville Opera), Monica in The Medium (Pacific Opera Project, CA), and Blonde in Die Entführung aus dem Serail (Dayton Opera).
Angela Yam
It’s time for another Young Artist Alumni shoutout! This week we’re highlighting 2023 Apprentice Artist Angela Yam, who stole the hearts of Anthony and our audiences as Johanna in our mainstage production of Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd. Bringing Johanna to life over our six-week production period, Angela took the stage with guest artists Kevin Burdette (Sweeney Todd) and Eve Gigliotti (Mrs. Lovett): “It was such a fulfilling experience to work alongside world-renowned artists….I learned a lot about the industry and what a professional career can look like.”
Angela also showcased her remarkable talent at our annual “Opera & Pops” concert with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra. This beloved Chautauqua event takes place in our historic Amphitheater, which seats over 3,000 people, and features our Young Artists performing hits from both musical theater and the operatic canon.
Angela mesmerized the audience with her poignant rendition of “The Beauty Is” from Adam Guettel’s The Light in the Piazza. She also dazzled with her impressive high notes, singing selections from Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore and Verdi’s Rigoletto. Angela expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “It was a thrilling experience to join the amazing players of the CSO and be inspired by their artistry.”
In 2025, Angela is set to lend her voice to a variety of exciting roles. Her upcoming engagements include Rabbit/Horse in The Big Swim at Asia Society Texas with Houston Grand Opera (February 2025), Orsia in The Pigeon Keeper with Opera Parallèle (March 2025), and Calisto in La Calisto with Opera Memphis (May 2025).
Emily Michiko Jensen
Exciting news from the Chautauqua Opera Company! We’re thrilled to celebrate our incredible Young Artist alum, Emily Michiko Jensen, who just made her debut as Mimì in La Bohème with Hawai’i Opera Theatre and as Musetta with Borderland Arts Foundation!
No stranger to Puccini, Emily spent the summer of 2022 as an Apprentice Artist covering Tosca on our mainstage. She shares, “Getting to try out various roles each season and learn from the guest artists has been an incredible experience.” That same season, Emily also sang Angel More and covered Susan B. Anthony in Thomson/Stein’s The Mother of Us All.
Having spent three summers at the Institution as a Studio and Apprentice Young Artist, Emily reflects on her continued connections with the Chautauqua community, which leaves her “always feeling supported and encouraged” wherever her work takes her. A recent performer on our Moschel Memorial Recital, Emily notes of her return to the grounds that she’s “always grateful for the warm welcome from the entire Opera Company & Guild.”
Emily’s trajectory with Chautauqua Opera Company is a wonderful picture of how a young singer’s career can grow, and how our company can play a recurring role” reflects Steven Osgood. “She was a Studio Artist in my first two seasons as General and Artistic Director, and did consistently terrific work in her cover and ensemble assignments, recitals, and masterclasses. Then for several years she would sing for us, but we did not have the right opportunity to invite her back to Chautauqua. I remember vividly how exciting it was to reach the end of our 2022 Young Artist audition cycle and find that Emily was the perfect singer for an Apprentice Artist position, covering the leading roles of Tosca and Susan B. Anthony, and singing Angel More. It was a very happy day when I got to call her and offer the contract, and then a thrilling summer to watch her excel in everything!
Kelly Guerra
Congratulations to ‘20 and ‘21 Young Artist and ‘22 Guest Artist Kelly Guerra, who will make her debut at The Metropolitan Opera on October 15th in Osvaldo Golijov and David Henry Hwang’s Ainadama.
Of the program, Guerra shared “Summer of 2021 was my first in-person summer at Chautauqua, and I had the immense honor of singing the role of Ruth Bader Ginsburg in Derrick Wang’s Scalia/Ginsburg. I felt extremely lucky to be singing anything, especially a leading lady, considering the year we had all just had in lockdown. For me, that summer was magical. I had the most incredible colleagues, and the admin team and musical staff were amazing. I was invited to return as a guest the following summer to perform a concert with the Diversity Fellows and workshop Derek Bermel’s beautiful opera, The House on Mango Street. Thanks to my time at CHQ, I was also able to meet the conductor of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, Rossen Milanov, and reprise the role of Ruth Bader Ginsburg as well as sing my first Rosina at the Princeton Festival under his baton. I am eternally thankful for my time there.”
She continued, “When I ran into Steve Osgood on the first day of rehearsal at the Metropolitan Opera for Ainadamar, I shared my gratitude for his belief in me as a young singer. It takes a village to have a career in the arts and I count the incredible folks at Chautauqua as part of my team.”
Additional 2024-25 engagements include Jo March in Mark Adamo’s Little Women with Fort Worth Opera, the alto soloist in Handel’s Messiah with the Glacier Symphony, Isabella in L’italiana in Algeri with Anchorage Opera and Opera in the Heights, María in María de Buenos Aires with Madison Opera and Mrs. Fox in Fantastic Mr. Fox with Opera Omaha.
Listen to Guerra perform “I Moved Here During All Of This” by composer Frances Pollock and playwright and librettist Jerre Dye, after conducting interviews with each of the 2020 Chautauqua Opera Young Artists.
“I Moved Here During All of This” (Chautauqua Opera Song Cycle) – Kelly Guerra