April has been an exceptional month at Arbour Artists, showcasing the depth and talent of our distinguished roster through impactful performances and landmark career milestones.

We are thrilled to welcome conductor Robert Emery, internationally acclaimed for his innovative approach and collaborations across musical theatre productions & tours, special events, TV & arena spectaculars, and gala concerts. His addition to the roster promises dynamic future engagements and enriching musical experiences.

Soprano Åsa Jäger opened the month powerfully with her portrayal of Brünnhilde in Wagner’s Siegfried at Prague’s historic State Theatre, conducted by Kent Nagano. Her commanding presence and vocal brilliance continue to solidify her as one of today’s leading Wagnerian sopranos, building anticipation for her upcoming debut in the title role Tristan und Isolde at Norrlandsoperan this fall—a poignant return to where her artistic journey began.

Baritone Timothy Mix captivated audiences as Enrico in Nashville Opera’s Lucia di Lammermoor (C:Dean Williamson), delivering a profound and psychologically nuanced portrayal of one of opera’s most intricate antagonists. His gripping performance further cements his status as a powerful dramatic interpreter.

Bass Kenneth Kellogg and tenor Chaz’men Williams-Ali offered stellar performances in Dayton Performing Arts Alliance’s production of Aida (C:Keitaro Harada). Their roles as Ramfis and Messenger/Radames (c) respectively showcased their rich vocal quality and dynamic stage presence, significantly enhancing this beloved Verdi classic.

Baritone Phillip Addis lent charm and character to the role of Marco in Calgary Opera’s spirited production of Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi, delighting audiences with his impeccable comedic timing and resonant baritone.

At the Badisches Staatstheater Karlsruhe, baritone Kihun Yoon delivered a powerful performance in the title role of Verdi’s Nabucco (C:Yura Yang), exhibiting remarkable vocal authority and emotional depth. His interpretation underscored the opera’s compelling exploration of power, redemption, and faith.

Virginia Opera audiences experienced a profound and moving portrayal by baritone Philip Bullock as Theoliver “Jake” Jeter in Loving V. Virginia, highlighting important historical and social themes through powerful vocal storytelling.

Soprano Janai Brugger brought her radiant voice to Aaron Zigman’s Émigré (C: Long Yu) with the Hong Kong Philharmonic, further demonstrating her versatile artistry and ability to enchant audiences globally.

Soprano Aundi Marie Moore delivered an emotionally charged performance of Brahms’ Requiem (C:Lucas Richman) with Bangor Symphony Orchestra, showcasing her rich, expressive voice and profound interpretive skill.

The month concluded with Bass Anthony Reed at The Metropolitan Opera as the Fifth Jew (c) in Strauss’s riveting Salome (C:Derrick Inouye), adding another impressive engagement to his growing repertoire at this esteemed institution.

Looking ahead, May is poised for further excitement:

• May 3: Baritone Nmon Ford reprises his compelling portrayal of Sharpless Madama Butterfly (C:Benjamin Manis)
  at Utah Opera.
• May 4: Conductor Ari Pelto takes the podium for Verdi’s fiery Il Trovatore at Opera Colorado.
• May 10: Tenor Andrew Bidlack appears at Oper Frankfurt in Rosenkavalier and Parsifal (C:Thomas Guggeis).
• May 10: Tenor Chaz’men Williams-Ali portrays Raymond Santana in Detroit Opera’s evocative production.
• May 12: Soprano Talise Trevigne covers the title role in the gripping Antony & Cleopatra (C: John Adams) at the Metropolitan Opera of New York.
• May 23: Bass Kenneth Kellogg debuts as Crown in Washington National Opera’s Porgy and Bess (C:Kwamé Ryan).
• May 31: Soprano Aundie Marie Moore is set to captivate audiences once more in Opera Theatre of St. Louis’s production, This House by Ricky Ian Gordan.
• May 31: Soprano Janai Brugger joins the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for An American Suite, to include music by Gershwin, Price, Bernstein, and Dvořák, conducted by James Gaffigan.

We proudly celebrate our artists’ achievements and eagerly anticipate their upcoming performances, continuing to enrich the world of opera with extraordinary artistry.