There really are no better words to describe Classic Lyric Arts: a family of artists who “meet you where you are” and grow with you at every step of the way.
I wish I could think of a different opening than this cheesy one, but there really are no better words to describe Classic Lyric Arts: a family of artists who “meet you where you are” and grow with you at every step of the way.
It was last summer, July 2022 at CLA Berkshires, that I first met Glenn Morton, John Viscardi, and the CLA community. I had such a special experience studying Mozart in the mountains that I knew I wanted to come back. This time it was to attend CLA Italy, the original program that started Classic Lyric Arts.
Arriving in Bologna a couple days before the program started, I felt nervous, excited, and honestly, a bit scared as I didn't know what to expect. It wasn’t that I didn’t know anyone or that I wasn’t looking forward to working on this repertoire, but I was unsure if the next two-and-a-half weeks ahead of me would be anything like my time in the Berkshires. And now that the program has ended, I can tell you it was a totally different experience.
Being in another country- in the beautiful piccolo paese that is Novafeltria- is a unique experience in itself. I spoke no Italian when arriving. Now, I can speak much more than I would have ever expected (thank you to our Italian teacher Ilaria Cicconi, Co-Director Ubaldo Fabbri, and the patient people of Novafeltria!). I also ate more delicious pasta, pizza, and pastries (the Holy trinity) and drank more espresso than anyone ever should (no regrets here).
I got to perform in beautiful teatri in Sant’Agata, Macerata Feltria, and Novafeltria. I saw breathtaking mosaics in Ravenna and explored the hilly landscape in Montefeltria. Most importantly, I learned from some of the most passionate and brilliant faculty in this business alongside a wonderful group of emerging artists. It really is refreshing to be surrounded by people who care about making high-quality music, but who also want to help you grow and see you succeed in all facets of musicianship and life.
Going back to the fear that I had before starting CLA Italy, yes, CLA Berkshires and CLA Italy were two very different experiences. But this is a testament to the statement made at the beginning of every program- that they will meet you where you are. I was in a different place on my artistic journey last summer in the Berkshires than I was this summer in Novafeltria. And both experiences have helped me grow into not only a better informed and prepared musician taking beginning steps into the industry, but also into a human who loves this art form even more than before.