Italian Opera Intensive Comes to Vermont

The Vermont Italian Opera Intensive is a new two-week program where singers come to study, learn, and sing Italian opera. Modeled after the Ezio Pinza Council for American Singers of Opera (EPCASO) program in Oderzo, Italy, this program offers coaching in Italian opera style, Italian vocal technique instruction, and Italian language classes. The program brings singers from around the world to Central Vermont for an immersive Italian opera experience in a beautiful New England setting. Classes and performances take place in a variety of venues, including Montpelier's Monteverdi Music School at the Center for Arts and Learning, and Waterbury's Congregational Church.

Vocal coach Mary Jane Austin and opera singer Erik Kroncke, both faculty of EPCASO, run the Vermont Italian Opera Intensive. They have over twenty years of experience in Italian opera and have worked with some of the greatest conductors, singers, and directors of the Italian opera tradition. All of the participating singers are of advanced study or professional level. This year's program will culminate with two concerts, on July 21st and 23rd.

FRIDAY JULY 21ST CONCERT, 7pm

An intimate house concert of Italian arias and songs, by the participants of the Vermont Italian Opera Intensive, with Erik Kroncke and Mary Jane Austin. Audience is limited to 20 people.

A private residence in East Montpelier, VT. Call 802-310-9802 for directions and reservations. Admission is free, and donations are gratefully accepted.

SUNDAY JULY 23RD CONCERT, 4pm

A semi-staged concert of scenes and arias, by the participants of the Vermont Italian Opera Intensive, with Erik Kroncke and Mary Jane Austin.

The Waterbury Congregational Church, 8 North Main Street, Waterbury, VT. Admission is free, and donations are gratefully accepted.