DONOR SPOTLIGHT
MARIA LEONE Born in Italy, Maria Leone’s first exposure to opera came at a very young age, and it sparked a love of the art form that continues to today. For Maria, opera is emotional and personal, and she feels a strong connection to the passion of the music. Maria is well known to style-savvy Vancouverites as the founder of the luxury retailer LEONE. Her success comes from years of hard work and an incredible artistic vision. Her work has taken her to opera performances in cultural capitals around the world, and these experiences have increased her love of opera and deepened her belief that the passion of opera can change and inspire. Now retired, Maria is devoting her time and energy to giving back. Her love of opera makes Vancouver Opera a perfect fit and we’re thrilled to welcome her to our Board of Directors. With her keen sense of style and savvy business sense, she is also a welcome addition to our VOX Gala committee.
INVESTING IN EMERGING ARTISTS Since 2004, The David Spencer Endowment Encouragement Fund has been investing in emerging artists at Vancouver Opera. This assistance helps provide crucial training and performance experience that allows young artists to bridge the gap between their postsecondary education and a professional career. In January, we welcomed John Fisher, formerly Assistant General Manager of Music Administration at the Metropolitan Opera, New York for a week-long coaching session with our Young Artists. The Young Artists Coaching Intensive this year included soprano Irina Medvedeva, mezzo-soprano Gena van Oosten, baritone Nicholas Borg, tenor Daevyd Pepper, and pianist Andrea Van Pelt.
WE THANK THE DAVID SPENCER ENDOWMENT ENCOURAGEMENT FUND TRUSTEES AND EXPRESS OUR SINCERE GRATITUDE FOR THEIR ROLE IN HELPING VO BECOME A LEADER IN YOUNG ARTIST TRAINING IN CANADA.
VANCOUVER OPERA | THE BARBER OF SEVILLE
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