Page 39 - 2020 Classical Singer Magazine January Summer Program Issue

AVA’s production of Gounod’s Romèo et Juliette, 2019
academy’s o erings with additional opportunities for resident artists to audition for visiting companies as well as agents and managers.
Merit-based fellowships also are available to help o set the cost of living expenses while enrolled at the Academy of Vocal Arts.
In addition to building a balanced roster of voices, the academy seeks singers who not only sing well, but who possess a “certain something” that sets them apart.
“What we’re looking for is the greatest potential of voices,” McDowell says. “And after years of doing what we do, there is a lot of trust in the faculty in being able to do that and continuing building upon what we do. What stands out are singers who are expressive. Maybe there is still development needed in the voice, but there is something in the sound that is unique and worth investing in. We work to bring that out.”
New Leadership
In July 2019, a new vice president and general manager joined the sta of the Academy of Vocal Arts.
Scott Guzielek previously served as the director of artistic operations at Palm Beach Opera where he also led and directed the Benenson Young Artist and Bailey Apprentice Artist programs. Under his leadership, the programs grew from 8 to 18 singers who were coached and mentored by nationally acclaimed faculty and sta .
Other career highlights included serving as artistic administrator for Washington National Opera from 2006
www.csmusic.net 39
photo by Paul Sirochman