(Credit: Kristen Loken Photography)

Famed tenor Rolando Villazón has received a Merola Distinguished Almuni Award.

The Mexican tenor was given the recognition on August 8 during a master class. During the presentation of the award, Merola Opera Program Board of Directors President Barbara Bruser Clark stated, “Those of us who heard Rolando Villazón that summer were never in doubt that great things were to come. And indeed, great things did come.”

Executive Director Jean Kellogg then added, “Rolando is not only a superlative artist, he is also a brilliant mentor. We are thrilled to have him here this summer to share his expertise with the Merolini.”

Villazón was part of the program in 1998 and performed the role of Alfredo in “La Traviata” during his stint. This season, he returns as Artist in Residence to work with young artists.

Villazón is currently performing at the Santa Fe Opera in a production of “Orfeo.” His career has taken him to all the major opera theaters from around the world where he has not only sung, but also directed. The tenor is also the current Artistic Director of Internationale Stiftung Mozarteum Salzburg where he has been reappointed through 2028.