Virtual Performances

EMERING ARTIST

Blake Denson baritone

Joined by pianist Bethany Self

A native of Paducah, Kentucky, baritone Blake Denson is praised for his “captivating dramatic interpretations” with “a striking upper register “and" a sound that boomed to the back of the house” (Opera Wire). Recently named a Grand Finalist winner of the 2020 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, Mr. Denson is a studio artist in the prestigious Houston Grand Opera Studio. His current/future roles include Father in Hansel and Gretel, Daddy/Tim in the world premiere of The Snowy Day, and Church councilman in Breaking the Waves. Learn more >

VIEW PROGRAM

EMERING ARTIST

Maya Buchanan violin

Joined by pianists Jungeun Kim & Zitong Wang

A Rapid City, South Dakota native, violinist Maya Anjali Buchanan is a top medalist of the Washington, Stulberg, Stradivarius and Johansen International Competitions. Maya has performed in Europe, China and with orchestras throughout the United States, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. She also regularly performs in competitions and music festivals across the country. An alumna of the Music Institute of Chicago Academy, Maya currently studies at the Curtis Institute of Music. Learn more >

VIEW PROGRAM

EMERING ARTIST

Evren Ozel piano

Pianist Evren Ozel began his musical studies at age three in his hometown of Minneapolis. The winner of numerous honors and awards including scholarships from the U.S. Chopin Foundation and Young Arts Foundation, he most recently received second prize and special prizes for Best Mazurka and Best Polonaise at the 2020 U.S. National Chopin Competition securing the honor of representing the U.S.A. in the 2021 International Chopin Competition in Warsaw, Poland. An avid chamber musician, Ozel has participated in festivals across the United States. Learn more >

VIEW PROGRAM