20 Years of the Georg Solti Academy: A Celebration at the Opera House
Former students of the bel canto summer academy are set to perform at a gala celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Georg Solti Academy at the Hungarian State Opera House on October 20. The event, conducted by János Kovács, will feature excerpts from renowned operas like Leoncavallo’s “Clowns,” Puccini’s “Bohemia,” and Bizet’s “Carmen,” with a live stream available on the Stage+ platform.
Among the performers are Ajgul Ahmetsina, who made her New York debut as Carmen, Freddie De Tommaso, who debuted at the Royal Opera as Cavaradossi in “Tosca,” Hera Seang Park, who performed Despina at the Paris Opera and will sing Pamina in New York, and Paul Grant, who starred as Figaro in “The Barber of Seville” in Milan last season.
Founded in 2004 by Lady Valerie Solti, Candice Wood, and Jonathan Papp, the Georg Solti Academy aims to provide a unique training program in bel canto singing, reflecting Sir Georg Solti’s vision. Over the years, the Academy has trained nearly 400 students, with instruction from renowned artists such as Angela Gheorghiu and José Carreras.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, a masterclass led by Artistic Director Jonathan Papp will be held at the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music. The academy’s founders highlight their collaboration with the Hungarian State Opera, emphasizing the significant role it played in Sir Georg Solti’s early career, including his conducting in 1938.
Sir Georg Solti, a renowned Hungarian conductor celebrated for his dynamic leadership and exceptional interpretation of the classical repertoire, will be honored during the event. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and electrifying performances, Solti’s legacy includes numerous Grammy Awards and a lasting influence on future generations of musicians.
The gala promises to be a memorable evening of music and celebration, showcasing the talent and dedication of the Georg Solti Academy’s former students.
