Q & A: Scott Guzielek on AVA’s 90th Anniversary & the Resilience of Opera

(Photo credit: AVA) In preparation for the “BrAVA Philadelphia! 90th Anniversary Celebration and Gala,” Scott Guzielek, President and Artistic Director of the Academy of Vocal Arts (AVA), talked with OperaWire about the institution’s dedication to the arts for close to a century and its upcoming celebratory events. Guzielek started with the Academy in 2019 as Vice President and General Manager. {…}

Academy of Vocal Arts Announces Season Opening Concert

The Academy of Vocal Arts will kick off its new season with a concert of opera favorites. The concert will feature Act three of Verdi’s “Rigoletto,” Act two of Puccini’s “La bohème,” and ensembles from Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly,” Ambroise Thomas’ “Mignon,” Franz Lehár’s “The Merry Widow,” Beethoven’s “Fidelio,” and Rossini’s “Il barbiere di Siviglia.” The showcase will be performed by {…}

Academy of Vocal Arts Announces Judges, Dates for Giargiari Bel Canto Vocal Competition

The Academy of Vocal Arts has unveiled details on its Giargiari Bel Canto Vocal Competition which will kick off the Institution’s virtual 2020-21 season. The virtual competition is set for Oct. 24, 2020 and can be viewed via AVA’s YouTube account. This year’s participants include soprano Aubry Ballarò, mezzo-soprano Alice Chung, bass eric Delagrange, baritone Daniel Gallegos, mezzo-soprano Chelsea Laggan, {…}