Q & A: Alessandra di Giorgio on the Importance of Drawing From Personal Experiences That Give Depth to Her Work

Alessandra di Giorgio is a critically acclaimed soprano spinto whose rich vocal timbre and dramatic intensity have already earned her a place on some of the world’s most prestigious stages. Her repertoire spans some of the most demanding soprano roles in the operatic canon, including Amelia (“Un Ballo in Maschera”), Giulietta (“Les Contes d’Hoffmann”), Manon (“Manon Lescaut”), Brünnhilde (“Siegfried”), Lady {…}

Q & A: Shepherd School of Music on Staging Verdi’s ‘Falstaff’ and Supporting the Future of Opera

On April 17, 2026, the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University raised the curtain on their mainstage production of Verdi’s comedic opus, “Falstaff.” Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the school has grown from its inception as Rice’s music department through the support of community partnerships and donors, and has developed into a vibrant and effective center of musical education and {…}

Q & A: Barbara Hannigan on Performing with the New York Philharmonic & ‘La Voix Humaine’

Barbara Hannigan is one of the most unique artists in the opera world. Not only is she a leading soprano, but she also one of the leading conductors in the industry. Her versatile artistry has allowed her to develop, over the past three decades, major artistic partnerships with the world’s foremost musicians, composers, directors, choreographers, and ensembles. Among those collaborators {…}

Q & A: Tenor Benjamin Bernheim on Lincoln Center Recital, Verdi Requiem Tour & Future Projects

(Photo Credit: Julia Wesely) On April 21, Benjamin Bernheim makes his return to New York City. The famed tenor, who last performed in the Big Apple in the September 2024 production of “Les Contes d’Hoffmann,” will take to the stage at Alice Tully Hall alongside long-time collaborator Carrie-Ann Matheson to present a recital program featuring works by Duparc, Tchaikovsky, Bizet, {…}

Q & A: Iestyn Davies on Britten’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, ‘ Dostoevsky & Timothée Chalamet

(Credit: Ben Ealovega) Few countertenors today command the international stage with the authority and musical intelligence of Iestyn Davies. Renowned for his interpretations of Baroque repertoire as well as his compelling performances in 20th-century opera, Davies has become one of the defining voices of his generation. During his recent return to Teatro Real in Madrid to perform Oberon in “A {…}

How Motherhood, Career Gaps & Stage IV Cancer Led Toni Marie Palmertree to Her Met Opera Debut

(Photo: A soprano known for her “tender and expressive voice” (SF Examiner) Toni Marie Palmertree is described as giving “riveting” performances of Tosca, Donna Elvira, and Nedda across America. She makes her principal role debut March 28th at the Metropolitan Opera as Cio-Cio-San in Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly.” A graduate of the Peabody Conservatory, Toni Marie Palmertree shares with OperaWire how {…}