Episode 21 - Helen Huang and Alice Chung

Episode 21 - Helen Huang and Alice Chung

Author: Piedmont Opera August 8, 2024 Duration: 40:52
This episode features Helen Huang and Alice Chung, who discuss their upcoming production, "The Girls of Yellow Diamonds," premiering in September at Piedmont Opera. Learn about their backgrounds, experiences in opera, and their initiative "Wear Yellow Proudly," which advocates for Asian artists and culture. Helen, originally from Beijing, and Alice, a California native, share their journeys in the opera world and how they met at Central City Opera. They also talk about their professional highlights and the importance of promoting diverse narratives in opera. They delve into "The Girls of Yellow Diamonds," a concert showcasing music by Asian American women composers, and discuss its themes and positive reception. They also address the challenges faced by Asian performers and their hopes for greater representation in opera. For more information about "Wear Yellow Proudly," visit their social media platforms.  Learn more about Helen and Alice by visiting their personal websites https://helenhuangsoprano.com/ https://www.alicechungmezzo.com/Donate to Piedmont Opera: https://piedmontopera.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3o00000N6R3PAAVSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Step into the wings and experience the intricate, collaborative world of a professional opera company based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. In Harmony with Piedmont Opera is a conversation-driven podcast that moves beyond the final bow to explore the countless moving parts that make a production possible. Each episode introduces you to the diverse voices within the company-from principal singers and chorus members to stage directors, costume designers, and orchestra musicians-who share their craft, their challenges, and their passion. We also delve into the vital work of building an audience and sustaining an art form, highlighting how the company partners with local businesses and nonprofit organizations to weave opera into the broader cultural and civic fabric of the community. This isn't just about performance; it's about process, partnership, and the people. Tune in for honest discussions about artistic choices, the realities of rehearsal, and the ongoing mission to make opera accessible and resonant for everyone. You'll gain a newfound appreciation for the harmony required both onstage and off. The podcast, presented by Piedmont Opera, offers a genuine, unvarnished look at the life of a regional arts institution, making the grand art form feel personal, immediate, and alive.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 37

In Harmony with Piedmont Opera
Podcast Episodes
The Cast of Carmen [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:53
In 2026, Piedmont Opera is shining the spotlight on the remarkable wealth of regional operatic artists who call the Triad home. This episode features three members of the Carmen cast (Stephanie Foley-Davis, Dan Boye and…
Episode 35 - Logan Webber [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:19
In this episode, we welcome Logan Webber, the new marketing and outreach manager for Piedmont Opera. Logan shares his journey with the organization, reflecting on his long-standing affiliation with the company and his pa…
Episode 34 - Blake Ginther [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:47
Recently, Piedmont Opera and The Ginther Group partnered on a new event called Storytime with Piedmont Opera and it's been a smashing success! On this episode, we get to know Blake Ginther to discuss why he and his team…
Celebrating 50 Years of Piedmont Opera: The Steinway Restoration [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:15
In this episode, we celebrate the upcoming 50th anniversary of Piedmont Opera by delving into the fascinating restoration of a 1909 Steinway piano. Join us as Bill Huesman, the piano technician who oversaw this remarkabl…
Episode 32 - Martha Bassett and Jason McKinney [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:24
In this episode, we're re-joined by Martha Bassett and welcome Jason McKinney, a talented singer and musician, as they discuss the upcoming Juneteenth celebration for The Martha Bassett Show at the Reeves Theater in Elki…
Episode 31 - Raehann Bryce-Davis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:16
Join us for a terrific episode as we explore the exciting collaboration between Piedmont Opera and the Winston Salem Symphony. In this episode, we spotlight the upcoming performance of Verdi's Requiem, set for April 26th…
Episode 30 - Joseph Mechavich [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:48
Meet Joseph Mechavich, a visionary and dynamic conductor and artistic director who will lead Piedmont Opera's 2025-2026 season. His passion for this art form is palpable, and his dynamic energy, warmth, and enthusiasm wi…
Episode 29 - Brennan Martinez [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:35
As we get closer to the Piedmont Opera production of Man of La Mancha, we get a chance to chat with another member of the cast, Brennan Martinez. The graduate of UNCSA makes her return to the Triad for her first live per…
Episode 28 - Hal Garrison [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:26
In this episode, we sit down with Hal Garrison, a cornerstone of the Piedmont Opera community, who has dedicated an impressive 47 years to the organization. Hal shares his journey from a shy young singer to a seasoned pe…
Episode 27 - Richard Ollarsaba and Jason Ferrante [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:02
In this episode, we spotlight the upcoming production of "Man of La Mancha," set to premiere at the High Point Theater on March 23rd, with additional performances on the 25th and 28th. Join us as we sit down with the tal…