Bel Canto in Tuscany: emerging artist program ‘24

Hello, my name is Sarah Wells. I am a recent graduate from Florida State University where I obtained my Masters degree in voice performance in 2022.

Since graduation, I have developed a career in property management while also raising a family and relentlessly pursuing my singing by continuing to take private voice lessons, supporting the music ministry at First Presbyterian Church, and. Each time I get to use my voice to uplift and inspire, to nurture community, or to express myself reminds me why I was drawn to singing and opera as a teenager. This art form has the power to reach deep into the listener and draw out feelings that no other art can, and I am honored to be a part of that.

I am at a point in life where I am working to grow my career in performance and build my skill set. Young artist programs are a great way to gain performance experience, exposure, and training for the arts. Many of these programs are tuition-based and can be costly, presenting challenges for those who are, like me, early in their careers.

I have had the honor of being accepted into an emerging artist program, Bel Canto in Tuscany. Being able to participate in a program such as this would help take my singing to another level and create a path for my future. This program helps to prepare emerging artists for the next stage of their careers by supplementing conservatory education with immersive training. As a student at BCT, I will receive daily personalized voice lessons and coachings from international faculty with credits at La Scala, the Metropolitan Opera, Opera Australia, and more. My technical studies will be complemented by intensive Italian training, professional staging, lectures on style, tradition, and the business of singing, masterclasses, daily yoga, and opportunities to perform for international audiences with orchestra.

To help me access this amazing opportunity, I’ve set a goal to raise $6,500 to cover airfare, tuition, preparation expenses (voice lessons and accompanist fees for rehearsals), and weekend meals during my stay. Every donation to my campaign brings me closer to the goal of attending this prestigious program and of realizing my calling as a professional musician. I appreciate any support that you can give and thank you for believing in me and helping me pursue my life purpose

“Ms. Wells is the ideal candidate for our Emerging Artists program. With several years of professional training already under her belt and a rich, mature tone and elegant, heartfelt presentation, she stands to augment her technical abilities with our teachers, coaches, and directors while deepening her understanding of historical traditions, building connections with educators and peers, and gaining invaluable performance experience in front of discerning audiences. We’re delighted and proud to welcome her to the BCT class of 2024.”

-Giovanni Reggioli, Founding Director of Bel Canto in Tuscany