Susan Graham Extends Contract with LA Opera

Plácido Domingo announced today that mezzo-soprano Susan Graham, one of the world's foremost opera stars, has renewed her contract to continue in her role as Artistic Advisor to LA Opera's Domingo-Colburn-Stein Young Artist Program through the 2020/21 season.

"For young singers just starting out in their careers, the influence of a guiding light like Susan Graham can make all the difference," said Mr. Domingo. "We are truly blessed to have an artist of her caliber as part of the LA Opera family and I am beyond thrilled that she will be extending her time with us. She has had a profound impact on our young artists, inspiring them to become more fearless and to find their own truths as performers. They have savored every opportunity to work closely with her as a role model, mentor, supporter and collaborator."

"I'm thrilled to renew my contract with LA Opera-another two years with the honor and privilege of mentoring, coaching, and overseeing development of our fine young singers, of whom I have grown very fond," said Ms. Graham. "Their talents and enthusiasm are inspiring, and helping them grow as artists is, as any teacher will tell you, greatly satisfying. The growth I've seen in these individuals and the program is a testament to the company's investment in young talent. I'm delighted to be a part of this team."

In her role as Artistic Advisor-a position created for her in 2017-Ms. Graham is in residence with the company for at least ten weeks each season. While onsite, she provides direct mentorship to the young artists in the skills, methodologies and philosophies necessary for building a long-term career like her own. She also works with the company's artistic leadership team to create performance opportunities for the participants, both at LA Opera and beyond.

Now in its 13th season, the Domingo-Colburn-Stein Young Artist Program helps highly gifted young musicians become the stars of tomorrow. Created and overseen by Plácido Domingo, the program is a two- to three-year paid residency for singers and pianists who are transitioning from academic training to a professional career in opera. The program is designed to create complete artists-insightful, sensitive and communicative-not just skilled technicians. The artists work closely with Artistic Advisor Susan Graham as well as Mr. Domingo, James Conlon, renowned voice teacher Stephen King, members of the LA Opera music staff, and guest artists.

Alumni of the program have made important debuts at the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, Covent Garden, San Francisco Opera, Deutsche Oper Berlin and English National Opera, to name just a few. Many have also returned to LA Opera to sing leading roles.

The Domingo-Colburn-Stein Young Artist Program is generously underwritten by the Colburn Foundation and Eugene and Marilyn Stein. Special support for young artist stipends is graciously provided by The Lenore and Richard Wayne Young Artist Fellowship. The program was created with funding from the Flora L. Thornton Foundation.

To learn more about the Domingo-Colburn-Stein Young Artist Program and its members, click here.

Photo Credit: Larry Ho