Opera is a multi-layered experience that combines story with staging, vocal performance and orchestral music. Angels Vocal Arts showcased the depth and variety of opera with their Gran Gala di Verdi.
The concert celebrated the compositions of Verdi including favorite like Rigoletto and Il Travatore, choruses from Nabucco as well as lesser known gems like the act II, the finale 
from Macbeth. Each performance highlighted talented performers who were complemented by the robust Angels Vocal Art company and Verdi Chorus.
The program had helped synopses of each scene but the music really spoke for itself and the singers’ performances did not need any interpretation. Each scene offered a snapshot of important moments from Verdi’s famous operas. These excerpts were exciting, emotional and musically compelling.
Angels Vocal Arts performed with a live full orchestra and this concert featured the Verdi Chorus. The group blended seamlessly together to provide a resounding theatrical performance.
Unlike other performing groups, Angels Vocal Art focuses on education and emerging professionals. Their unique 6-week intensive training program that allows emerging opera professionals to study closely under renowned musicians like to study under Conductor Kristof Van Grysperre, Stage Directors Tanya Kane-Parry, Anne Marie Ketchum and Suzan Hanson, and Pianist and Vocal Coaches Victoria Kirsch, Neda St. Clair, and Linda Zoolalian. Other faculty include Dr. Susan Mohini Kane and Guest Artist Vittorio.
“As the only summer opera festival in Los Angeles, Angels Vocal Art is committed to presenting a broad variety of programming of the highest standard of artistic excellence. I’m passionate about the opportunity to showcase emerging artists alongside world-class professional talent,’ said Kristof Van Grysperre, Artistic Director of Angels Vocal Art.
Melvin Lin founded the chorus in 2006 by inviting tenor legend, Carlo Bergonzi, to Pasadena. These master classes were soon extended to China and vocal competitions in honor of Bergonzi were organized in over 30 major Chinese cities. The chorus continues to pay homage to Bergonzi while continuing to program a variety of opera performances.
This July, they will offer the Southern California premiere of Anya17, a modern opera addressing human trafficking. This intensely moving opera by Adam Gorb draws attention to the human rights crisis that affects millions worldwide. The work features AVA Artistic Director Kristof Van Grysperre conducting and internationally acclaimed director Tanya Kane-Parry in a fully-staged production with orchestra.
For more information visit www.angelsvocalart.org.
