Emerging Artists

Powerful and unforgettable, the talent of outstanding singers/actors makes each opera experience grand. 

The Donald and Donna Baumgartner Studio Artist professional residency is designed to ensure the future of opera by providing emerging artists from around the country with comprehensive training, advanced instruction, and professional performance opportunities. 

Applications for the 2025/26 season are closed. The Florentine Opera will announce auditions for the 2026/27 season in Fall 2025.

2024/25 Baumgartner Studio Artists

 

Sara LeMesh
she/her
SOPRANO

Jerek Fernández
he/him
TENOR

Daniel Weber
he/him
PIANIST

 

Lauryn Nelson
she/her
MEZZO-SOPRANO

Brandan Sanchez
he/him
BARITONE

Aurelia Andrews
she/her
HEAD OF MUSIC

 

Summer 2024 Studio Ensemble

 

Laura McCauley
she/her
SOPRANO

River Guard
he/him
TENOR

Théodora Cottarel
she/her
SOPRANO

 

Zara Zemmels
she/they
MEZZO-SOPRANO

Evan Fleming
he/him
BARITONE

Lara Bolton
she/her
HEAD OF VOCAL ARTS
SUMMER STUDIO ENSEMBLE

 
 
 
 

Events That Sing

Make your next corporate, private, or community event unforgettable with live opera performance.

Breathtaking Entertainment

The Florentine Opera provides unique and awe-inspiring opera entertainment for events of all sizes. Whether you’re looking for engaging entertainment all evening, or environmental flavor to greet your guests, we’ll ensure that your guests keep talking about your event for years to come! 

About & History

Now in its 15th season, the Baumgartner Studio Artist program bridges the gap for artists between academia and professional careers. The program is a stepping stone for singers/actors before working with major opera houses.

The nine-month residency consists of a soprano, mezzo soprano, tenor, baritone/bass and pianist. Artists typically have completed their graduate studies who are looking to expand their artistry and repertoire.

2008 – 2009: The Florentine Opera Studio Artist program begins its first season.

2013 – 2014: Casa di Opera opened – a fully furnished housing for the Studio Artists on The Florentine Opera Center’s campus.

2014 – 2015: A concert series featuring the Studio Artists is added to the main-stage season.

2017 – 2018: Due to a generous gift from Donald and Donna Baumgartner, the program name is changed to the Baumgartner Studio Artists Program.

2017: The Summer Concert Residency begins its first season.

2021 – 2022: A collaborative pianist is added to the program.

2022 – 2023: The 15th Anniversary of the program.