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GRADUATE PORTRAITS 

Delve into the personal journeys of three graduating artists who share their story simply and sincerely. Read about their human and artistic development over the past few years, as they find their unique voice thanks to the supportive and benevolent environment of our programme.

Texts : Véronique Gauthier
Photos : Marianne Charland

 

Matthew Dalen, tenor

"It’s the best place in Canada! What is special about the Opéra de Montréal, is that they give you a true opportunity to grow and improve, both as an artist and a person."

>> Discover Matthew's journey
 

Jean-Philippe Mc Clish, bass-baritone

“It’s certain that if I come back to sing with the Opéra de Montréal, it will feel like coming home. I am at home here!”

>> Discover Jean-Philippe's journey
 

Holly Kroeker, pianist

“The Atelier enabled me to really enter into the thick of it, to lead a rehearsal, try things out, make mistakes, start over. And we are given the opportunity to work in different contexts, with different conductors and orchestras, in various musical styles.” 

>> Discover Holly's journey

Andrea Van Pelt, pianist

“For sure. I have never worked in such a warm and caring environment, and I made many friends. I am grateful for everything I have been given here and I will always keep an eye on what is going on here. I will come back as often as I can, as soon as the pandemic is behind us.”

>> Discover Andrea's journey

Sarah Dufresne, soprano

“I felt that I just clicked with everyone. I also got the impression that the Opéra de Montréal was a very welcoming company that makes us feel at home, and that was really important for me in order to transition more comfortably from student life to professional life.”

>> Discover Sarah's journey



Vanessa Croome, soprano


“Opera is truly a mental game. You work so hard to be able to perform and give it your best for a short period of your life. You need to be mentally stable and build effective preparation strategies.” 


>> Discover Vanessa's journey



Geoff Schellenberg, baritone

“I have never improved as much as I have in the past two years. All the professionals I worked with here are amazing. I have only good things to say!” 

>> Discover Geoff's journey

Kirsten LeBlanc, soprano

«  When you’re in school, your goal is to succeed rather than create something. Here, I explored what it is I had to say and why I wanted to sing.  »

>> Discover Kirsten's journey