JulyNews

Opera Prelude YA News July 2025

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nother successful month here at Opera Prelude!

We were lucky enough to be joined by Young Artists Stephen Whitford (baritone) and Phoebe Smith (soprano) for a second outing of their duo-themed recital, Double Act. The fabulous George Ireland joined them once again at the piano. The performance was at the beautiful Fawley House, and we were joined by so many wonderful Opera Prelude supporters in the audience. One audience member gave us this delightful feedback:

“Phoebe and Stephen’s “Double Act” was a triumph: beautiful singing of some favourite arias with a clever choice of some very entertaining light-hearted numbers: such fun! And all superbly accompanied by George Ireland on the piano: an evening of pure joy

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And what a treat to be in the beautiful setting of the magnificent Fawley House and being allowed to wander round and enjoy that stunning garden…!”

Young Artist News

Elsewhere this month, Ellen Pearson, mezzo-soprano, performed the role of La Ciesca in Gianna Schicchi at the Verbier Festival. She was joined on stage by none other than Sir Bryn Terfel in the title role! Sam Young, baritone, has been performing the role of Aeneas in Dido and Aeneas, as well as being the cover performer for the role of Bartolo in Longborough Festival Opera’s production of Il Barbiere di Siviglia. Georgie Malcolm has been performing in the chorus of Garsington Opera all summer. And Alexandra Meier, mexxo-soprano, appeared in Life gets stretched at Buxton Festival!

In other news, we are delighted to welcome John Savournin as an Opera Prelude Ambassador, and look forward to working with him to champion our young artists and the work of the charity.