Words from our faculty
Alan Johnson, Pianist/Coach
“Respiro Opera provides singers with professional operatic aspirations for an immersive and holistic opera experience that will resonate far beyond the ten-day intensive sessions. Each year, Founder and Artistic Director, LeAnn Overton, gathers esteemed New York artist-faculty to guide singers in individual and collective sessions at OPERA America’s National Opera Center. Respiro Opera is as vital a bridge to the professional world as is the skillful binding of two notes to create legato!”
bill connington, alexander technique
“What a big success! The students made real strides and improvements. Kudos to you, LeAnn for putting the program together and making it a reality!”
David holkeboer, pianist/coach
“LeAnn’s thorough preparation of the background, context, characters and meaning of the text of each aria and scene have informed the detailed, meticulous direction she has given you to allow you to realize your individual, fullest possible interpretation.”
jan prokop, body mapping
“Brava! The Respiro singers grow and learn more with each successful and successive year. It is inspiring and amazing that you have created a vision and concept that can produce such profound results in such a shot time. I feel privileged to be a part of this wonderful, vibrant, talented music-making community.”
roger malouf, vocal coach
“Seeing the transformation that happens to Respiro singers each year in just 10 days, is one of the most gratifying experiences of my career. I also love working with Respiro Opera because the program is so well organized.”
ELEANOR TAYLOR, ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE
“Respiro offers singers who are serious about developing the skills for vibrant performance a special opportunity: the chance to devote their attention fully to finding more freedom and ease in their body and breath in singing. The Alexander Technique is a vital part of the singer’s toolbox, and Respiro has created an environment where young artists can strengthen the foundation of their craft through the program’s offerings. What a gift to emerging artists Respiro is!”
lori Schiff, Alexander technique
“Respiro Opera is small, features personal attention and introduces singers to the fundamental idea that how they use their body/self is basic to singing and expression. They have a chance to experience different modalities with fine teachers and all connected with singing.”