Dana School of Music voice students will have the opportunity to attend a master class with Lawrence Brownlee on Thursday in Bliss Recital Hall.
Brownlee, a native of Youngstown who attended his first year of college at Youngstown State University, is returning home to perform in Opera Western Reserve’s production of “The Barber of Seville.”
A select few students will perform for Brownlee during Thursday’s master class.
Lauren Corcoran, a senior vocal education major, said she looks forward to singing for Brownlee.
“Lawrence Brownlee is one of the most famous and sought-after tenors right now. It is a privilege to sing for him and get his feedback,” Corcoran said.
Each student involved will sing an excerpt of music for Brownlee and will then receive coaching in front of the audience.
“It’s so wonderful that our smaller school has the ability to bring in such an amazing star,” Corcoran said.
Brownlee has performed in Russia, the Netherlands, France, Italy, Canada and New York City, among other locations.
Allan Mosher, a voice professor at YSU, said he admires what Brownlee has accomplished in the professional opera field, but that he appreciates his returning to Youngstown.
“He hasn’t forgotten where he came from,” Mosher said.
Brownlee will perform the role of Count Almaviva in “The Barber of Seville” at Stambaugh Auditorium on Friday.
Corcoran said she and other Dana students look forward to performing with Brownlee in “The Barber of Seville.”
“It’s great that he can come back and sing in his hometown,”
Corcoran said. “Audience members are really in for a treat. His voice is flawless and effortless.”
Misook Yun, a voice professor at YSU, said she has seen Brownlee perform and looks forward to hearing his input for her students.
“People here appreciate and support quality music,” Yun said. “I am looking forward to hear his input from his experience performing internationally.”
