Michael A. Fornabaio, President
Midge Woolsey, Vice President & Co-Artistic Director
Cornelia Beigel, Executive Director & Secretary
Karl Michaelis, Treasurer
Arlene Shrut, Co-Artistic Director/Collaborative Pianist
Michael A. Fornabaio, President
Midge Woolsey, Vice President & Co-Artistic Director
Cornelia Beigel, Executive Director & Secretary
Karl Michaelis, Treasurer
Arlene Shrut, Co-Artistic Director/Collaborative Pianist
I am profoundly grateful to The Gerda Lissner Foundation for the honor of having me and for the incredible award. It will be cherished deeply as a very special memento. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! This award symbolizes not only a recognition of my efforts but also serves as a testament to the unwavering support and encouragement I have received from organizations like The Gerda Lissner Foundation, family, and friends. Their instrumental role in nurturing my artistic growth has been a driving force, and this achievement is as much theirs as it is mine.
The Gerda Lissner Foundation IVC was one of the very first vocal competitions I ever auditioned for many moons ago. Stepping onto the stage of Zankel Hall was an unforgettable full circle moment for me as I went on to perform as the recipient of the second prize. I’m immensely grateful for the recognition and the foundation’s continued support through the opportunities they provide for young artists.
Last night’s opera concert was nothing short of magical – a truly unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking performances to the grandeur of the venue, every moment was a masterpiece. Events like these remind us of the beauty that music and connection can bring into our lives.
Not only a great concert but also a “gathering of the Tribe”.
I had an unforgettable experience singing for the Gerda Lissner Foundation at Carnegie Hall for their Winners Concert on April 30th. I am so grateful and honored and proud to have been a part of this experience.
Song is a precious and important art form, and The Gerda Lissner Foundation is doing vital work in supporting the next generation of art song performers. I consider it a true honor to be recognized among this year’s group of Lieder/Song Competition prize-winners. Singing at the Winners’ Concert was a highlight of my season — it was a joy to share some of my favorite repertoire in beautiful Zankel Hall alongside a wonderful collaborator, Francesco Barfoed.
Winning the Grand Prize at the Gerda Lissner Foundation Competition was a tremendous honor. Receiving support and recognition from such a distinguished jury is deeply encouraging as I continue to pursue this career. Performing at Carnegie Hall’s Zankel Hall for the first time was truly a dream. The acoustics were stunning, and the full house brought such generous energy to every performer.
I am deeply honored to receive this generous award from The Gerda Lissner Foundation. I am truly grateful for the recognition and support. It was a tremendous privilege to make my Carnegie Hall debut as part of the Winners Recital—an unforgettable experience. My sincere thanks to the Foundation for this remarkable opportunity and for their continued commitment to supporting young artists.
It was a sensational recital of gifted young singers…..it was a celebration of the enduring legacy of Gerda Lissner; …. No one need worry about the future of opera.
…A lovely way to wrap up a Sunday afternoon! …if what we experienced was any indication, the forecast for opera’s future looks bright indeed.
I am so immensely grateful and honored to have been awarded First Prize in this year’s Gerda Lissner Foundation Lieder Competition. Song has always been a source of joy and inspiration for me, and I feel so grateful to the Foundation for their support of this deeply important art form and for their belief in my artistry.