In Harmony with Piedmont Opera: Recent Episodes
Piedmont Opera
In Harmony with Piedmont Opera takes you behind the scenes of a professional opera company located in Winston-Salem, NC. Meet members of our cast and crew and learn how we connect with businesses and nonprofits in our community to promote the art of opera.
Cynthia Stokes will directing Piedmont Opera's first immersive opera 'Joan of Arc: The Trial at Rouen.' She's a great friend and we're excited that she's joining to us to discuss the following topics:
- Cynthia's long history with Piedmont Opera, having done some of our traditional operas, but she also produced one of our favorite operas Silent Night.
- Cynthia has become a leader in producing opera in unique places. She will be directing the October opera Joan of Arc: The Trial at Rouen. How will this show differ from operas that have been produced at the Stevens Center?
- What is her dream unconventional destination to direct an opera?
- How does reimagining where and how we produce opera impact this art form?
TICKETS: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36795/production/1203567
Cynthia's website: http://www.cynthiastokes.com/
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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EDITORS NOTE: THE RECITAL TOUR DATE WAS CHANGED TO OCTOBER 19TH AFTER THE PODCAST WAS ALREADY RECORDED.
In this episode, we are joined by the talented baritone, Joshua Conyers. Described by Opera News as having a "deliciously honeyed baritone that would seduce anyone," Joshua shares his incredible journey from a challenging childhood in the Bronx to becoming a celebrated opera singer. He discusses his early love for music, his struggles, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career.
Joshua will be performing in two upcoming events with Piedmont Opera in October: "Joan of Arc: The Trial of Rouen" on October 25 and 27, and "A Miracle in Legacy: The Recital Tour" on October 19th, in collaboration with the North Carolina School of the Arts. In this episode, we explore:
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Joshua's early life and how he discovered his passion for opera.
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The significant role of mentors and teachers in his life.
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His experiences and challenges in the opera industry.
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The importance of diversity and inclusion in the performing arts.
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Details about his upcoming performances and the roles he will be playing.
Joshua also shares insights into his new album, "A Miracle in Legacy," which has already made it to the Billboard charts. He discusses the inspiration behind the album and the powerful stories it tells about his life and the experiences of Black Americans.
For more information and to purchase tickets for Joshua's performances, visit Joshua Conyers' website.
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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This episode is a special treat as we welcome two incredibly talented musicians, Kristin Schwecke and Martha Bassett. Not only is Kristin our first repeat guest, but she and Martha are collaborating for an exciting event in September as Kristin joins the Martha Bassett Show.
Plus, we delve into the importance of representation in music, with Martha discussing her efforts to highlight female musicians and the positive changes she's seen in the local music scene. And, Kristin's first podcast actually spawned a voice coaching connection between her and Martha.
Don't miss the chance to hear about their favorite local spots in the Triad for coffee, cocktails, and live music, and get all the details on attending the Martha Bassett Show at the Reeves Theater in Elkin.
https://marthabassettshow.com/
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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This episode features Helen Huang and Alice Chung, who discuss their upcoming production, "The Girls of Yellow Diamonds," premiering in September at Piedmont Opera. Learn about their backgrounds, experiences in opera, and their initiative "Wear Yellow Proudly," which advocates for Asian artists and culture.
Helen, originally from Beijing, and Alice, a California native, share their journeys in the opera world and how they met at Central City Opera. They also talk about their professional highlights and the importance of promoting diverse narratives in opera.
They delve into "The Girls of Yellow Diamonds," a concert showcasing music by Asian American women composers, and discuss its themes and positive reception. They also address the challenges faced by Asian performers and their hopes for greater representation in opera.
For more information about "Wear Yellow Proudly," visit their social media platforms. Learn more about Helen and Alice by visiting their personal websites
https://helenhuangsoprano.com/
https://www.alicechungmezzo.com/
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Welcome to the Frank and Gary show! In this episode, we explore their extraordinary journey from meeting post-military service to becoming pillars of the Winston-Salem arts community.
Discover how their quest for acceptance led them to the doorstep of the arts, where they found a sanctuary of inclusivity and friendship. As honorary co-chairs of the annual Magnolia Ball, Frank and Gary reflect on their advocacy for civil rights, their passion for opera, and their unwavering support for local talent and scholarships.
With humor, grace, and a touch of sass, Frank and Gary share their secret to a 60-year partnership that's as vibrant as the performances they adore. From their first opera mishap to their latest endeavors to grow the arts in the Triad, their story is a testament to the power of community, love, and a life richly lived.
Join us for an unforgettable conversation that's as enlightening as it is entertaining, and be inspired by two men who've not only witnessed history but have also made a bit of their own.
For more on Magnolia Ball visit https://www.piedmontopera.org/magnolia-ball
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Join us for a conversation with Wendy Poteat, President and CEO of Shift_Ed. In this episode, Wendy shares the inspiring mission of Shift_Ed to boldly accelerate student potential, offering a multitude of programs that span from kindergarten to the workforce. Discover how Shift_Ed's core values of opportunity, equity, collaboration, excellence, and agility are reshaping the educational landscape and fostering social mobility across the Piedmont Triad.
Wendy also unveils the creative essence behind the Shift_Ed brand, emphasizing the underscore brand as a symbol of endless possibilities for students. We dive into the organization's commitment to equity and the multifaceted programs that cater to every student's unique path, whether it's college, credentialing, or the military.
Listen as Wendy recounts her personal journey from tragedy to triumph, her return to education as a mother, and how her experiences shape her leadership at Shift_Ed. The episode further explores the synergy between Shift_Ed and Piedmont Opera, highlighting their collaborative efforts to expose students to the arts and the myriad of career opportunities within.
Wendy candidly discusses the challenges facing today's youth, particularly the generational impacts of the pandemic, and how Shift_Ed is addressing these obstacles through a focus on equity and collective effort.
We also get a glimpse into Shift_Ed's partnership with High Point University, their scholarship initiatives, and the exciting fireside chat series
Before we conclude, Wendy shares her favorite local spots in the Triad, from Winston-Salem's eclectic eateries to High Point's vibrant food scene, and the family-owned barbecue gem in Greensboro.
For more information on how to engage with and support the life-changing work of Shift_Ed, visit shift-ed.org and follow their social channels to stay connected with their impactful endeavors.
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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In this episode, listen to the intersection of culture and compassion as the Piedmont Opera teams up with Open Door Ministries of High Point to make a difference in the community. Get an insider's look at the upcoming "The Marriage of Figaro" and the ingenious wedding registry initiative that turns gifts into support for those in need. Hear from the passionate voices behind the partnership as Ryan Ross and Ivan Huffman share insights into their mission to combat homelessness and poverty.
Open Door Website: https://www.opendoorministrieshp.org/
Buy Tickets to The Marriage of Figaro: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36795/production/1185979
Wedding Registry: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/6T9QH579HRHX?ref_=wl_share
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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In this installment of In Harmony with Piedmont Opera, we're graced by the presence of Richard Ollarsaba, a baritone whose voice and presence command the stage. While awaiting his role as the Count in "The Marriage of Figaro" in March, Richard shares his journey from an eager student at UNC School of the Arts to an opera singer of international acclaim.
Richard reflects on his deep-rooted love for music, nurtured by a supportive family who saw no alternative to his passion. He recounts the serendipitous decision to attend UNCSA sight unseen and how it shaped his career, leading to a profound connection with the Piedmont area—a place he now fondly considers a second home.
As we delve into his daily routines, Richard reveals his approach to vocal athleticism, akin to an Olympian's discipline, and his simple yet effective tricks for maintaining vocal health. His anticipation to return to Winston Salem is palpable, not only for the joy of performance but also for the community and culinary delights—like the irresistible shrimp and grits at Sweet Potatoes.
Richard's insights extend beyond the stage as he contemplates the future of opera, balancing innovation with tradition. He champions a return to the grandiosity that defines opera while embracing new narratives and platforms that expand the art form's reach.
Buy tickets to The Marriage of Figaro: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36795/production/1185979
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Step into the captivating world of opera with Jodi Burns, the Piedmont Opera's beloved soprano, as she graces our podcast for a melodious start to the new year. In this episode, we delve into Jodi's enchanting journey from her early beginnings in Columbus, Ohio to her flourishing career in Winston-Salem, a city that cherishes the arts.
Jodi recounts her evolution as an artist, from serenading Olive Garden patrons at age three to mastering the grand stage. She shares the profound impact of her music educators and mentors, who nurtured her talent and helped her navigate the complexities of performance—from owning the stage to expressing nuanced emotions through song.
As we look ahead to Piedmont Opera's "The Marriage of Figaro," Jodi offers a glimpse into her role as the Countess—a character who navigates the comedic chaos with sincerity and hope. She also shares her dream role, the challenges facing the world of opera, and her vision for its enduring relevance.
Beyond the stage, Jodi paints a picture of her ideal Friday night in Winston-Salem, from savoring the flavors of West End Cafe to supporting the city's vibrant small businesses.
For a symphony of emotions and a peek behind the curtain with a local operatic treasure, tune in to this episode. And if Jodi's story has struck a chord, follow her journey at jodiburnssoprano.com and on social media for upcoming performances and insights into her multifaceted musical life.
Buy tickets to The Marriage of Figaro: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36795/production/1185979
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Ben Gulley is an American tenor who has traveled the globe and his experiences include opera, solo engagements, concert, film work, touring and important appearances abroad. Shortly after his debut performance with Piedmont Opera's Il Trovatore, Ben joins the podcast to share stories of his stay in the triad, his career highlights and what's ahead in his professional journey
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Brian Banion is a member of the Piedmont Opera family and has performed with us many times. That is, until he got cancer. Not just any cancer would do- he went with Multiple Myeloma. After multiple bone marrow transplants and years of being a science experiment, he’s in remission- and returning to Piedmont Opera for a performance in Il Trovatore beginning October 20th.
Join us for an amazing recollection of his 5-year physical battle and how he feels to be returning to the stage once again here in Winston-Salem.
BUY TICKETS: https://piedmontopera.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket/#/events/a0S3o00001LQ9z0EAD
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Dr. Jonathan Burdette is a professor in radiology with the Wake Forest School of Medicine and an active supporter and performer with Piedmont Opera. In this episode, we discuss his research on the powerful (and visible) effect that music has on the brain. Plus, you'll learn about how he became enamored with opera and the fascinating work he's doing in South America to bring radiology assistance to underserved populations
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Veteran lighting designer and UNC School of the Arts faculty member Norman Coates has been shaping the minds and talents of future Artist Leaders for more than 25 years. Take a listen to hear how his story took him from the bright lights of Broadway and New York City to becoming such a major part of the performing arts in the Triad. And, don't miss his story of lighting The White House!
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Entering his 20th year as artistic director for Piedmont Opera, Jamie Allbritten joins us for a conversation about how he developed a love of opera, his relationship with our community and the fascinating story about first meeting his wife. Plus, he shares the details on the upcoming season of performances and how they're navigating the renovations at the Stevens Center
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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She is culinary royalty in our city and now Mary Haglund joins the podcast to share what she's been up to since leaving the restaurant business. Of course, we do get nostalgic about Mary's in this episode. Later, we discuss Dinner with Divas on August 12th, the event on which she and Piedmont Opera are partnering. As many of you know, Mary is a fierce advocate of the arts and the artists behind so many things in our everyday life so don't miss the details of the project she's working on to help tell the story of the unique connection between our community and local artists.
DONATE to support the documentary: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-our-documentary-how-to-feed-an-artist
Dinner with Divas Tickets: https://piedmontopera.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket/#/instances/a0F3o00000qnhxLEAQ
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Just before setting off on a new musical journey, Dr. John McKeever joins us to talk about his time as assistant conductor of Piedmont Opera. Plus, how did his path toward becoming a conductor begin and what exactly was he responsible for in that that role? Finally, as he prepares to leave the Triad, what will he miss most about living in Winston-Salem?
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Jenna Anderson is the CEO of Jenna Sais Quoi LLC, an atelier focused on custom apparel, costumes, dancewear, and limited edition collections. She will be designing a dress for a patron who is attending the annual Magnolia Ball on May 20th.
Take a listen to hear Jenna's courageous journey and you'll quickly understand why she's so good at what she does!
WEBSITE: https://www.jsqdesigns.com
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Lindsay Allen returns to the podcast to discuss upcoming events, performances and summer camps with the PIedmont Youth Chorus. For tickets, information or to register for their amazing summer camp experience, please visit piedmontopera.org or call 336-725-7101
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Destinee was our wig and make up professional for Don Pasquale. She has an incredible background and is a graduate of UNCSA. Tune in to learn more about her career path, the tricks of her trade and some interesting behind the scenes nuggets from the recent Piedmont Opera production.
The time lapse of Brad's makeup can be found at Destinee's Instagram reel @destinee.steele_mua. Her website is destineesteele.com
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Brad Smoak stars in the upcoming Piedmont Opera production of Don Pasquale. Join us for a conversation about his history with music, the upcoming production and the challenges facing the artform.
Don Pasquale shows are coming up on March 17, 19 and 21. Get your tickets NOW at piedmontopera.org
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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We continue our discussion about issues surrounding race and the experiences of people of color in the opera world. On this episode, we're joined by The Reverend Kenneth A. Pettigrew... a preacher, liturgist, and community organizer. Kenneth is a native of Winston-Salem and an emerging voice in progressive Christianity. He also serves as the executive director of the Winston Lake Family YMCA
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Ms. Thompson began her musical studies as a violinist. During her time as a violinist, she played in regional symphony orchestras in Louisiana and Texas including, Galveston Symphony, The Woodlands Symphony Orchestra, Southeast Louisiana Symphony and Texas Music Festival Symphony Orchestra. Ms.Thompson decided to sing full-time after receiving a full scholarship to the prestigious Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, CA to study with
Marilyn Horne.
Since then, she has sung the roles of Tosca, AIDA, Abigaille, Sieglinde, Violetta, and several other leading ladies. The New York Times describes her voice in the role of Violetta as “a warm agile soprano with a secure technique,” Opera News stated of her “Pace, pace, mio Dio” that “[she sang] with a cascade of refined yet plush Italianate sound; …an expertly introspective performance.” Ms. Thompson has performed with Teatro Municipal de São Paulo, Union Avenue Opera, New York City Opera, New York Grand Opera, Opera Carolina, and Mississippi Opera, to name a few.
SOURCE: marshathompson.com
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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This episode is an introduction to the Piedmont Youth Chorus, which is now a part of The Piedmont Opera. We're visiting with Lindsey Allen, the director of education and outreach plus Will Muster from AM Erectors. He's a board member, performer and sponsor with Piedmont Opera and the Piedmont Youth Chorus
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Kristin Schwecke has been heralded as “A name to keep in mind…Her voice filled the house and dominated the stage. Simply spectacular! What a promising dramatic soprano!” - Opera Lively
Kristin is our guest for our second episode and she shares stories from her journey to becoming both a professional classical singer and a teacher with UNCSA.
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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Dr. Scott MacLeod is an accomplished singer spanning classical and musical theatre genres as well as an an associate professor of music at High Point University. Dr. MacLeod plays Barone Douphol in the upcoming Piedmont Opera production of La Traviata on October 21, 23 and 25
Listen in for a conversation about La Traviata, Scott's love of the opera and how the artform is tackling current challenges.
For tickets to La Traviata, visit piedmontopera.org
Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAV
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