March 29, 2006

Opera icon to give personalized lesson to Sacramento State students

International opera star Frederica von Stade will teach a voice masterclass featuring award-winning singers from the Sacramento State music program at 3 p.m., Friday, April 7 in the

Music Recital Hall in Capistrano Hall. Admission to the class is free and open to the public.

The New York Times described von Stade as “one of America’s finest artists and singers” and she has performed both in the United States and overseas for more than three decades. The mezzo-soprano has made more than 60 recordings with major labels including operas, arias, symphonic works and solo recitals. Her recordings have garnered many awards including six Grammy nominations and an award in 1983 from President Ronald Reagan for her significant contribution to the arts.

She will be accompanied by Sacramento State advanced vocalist students who have won major competitions in the Bay Area including the Metropolitan Opera Pacific Region Finals, the West Bay Opera Scholarship and the Stewart Bay competition. Roy Sanchez, Sacramento State staff accompanist, will play the piano.

Von Stade will perform on April 8 at the Mondavi Center.

For more information contact Robin Fisher at (916) 278-5155 and for media assistance contact the Public Affairs office at (916) 278-6156.

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