Virginia Alonso Opera singer, soprano. Country: Cuba

1. Biography of Virginia Alonso
2. Early Career
3. Accomplishments
4. Academic and Teaching Career
5. Operatic Performances

Biography of Virginia Alonso

Virginia Alonso is an opera singer, specifically a soprano. She was discovered by Luciano Pavarotti and made her debut in Giacomo Puccini's "La bohème" in New Orleans. Born in Havana, Cuba, Virginia received her higher education from Florida State University, Florida International University, and Indiana University.

Early Career

After her debut, Virginia moved to Europe and lived and performed in Vienna, Germany, and Switzerland until 1985. During this time, she collaborated with Plácido Domingo on the television program "Seville," which won an Emmy Award for Best Classical Music Program. Virginia and Domingo continued to work together in Vienna and the United States.

Accomplishments

Under the guidance of her mentors Elena Nikolaidi and Frank Corsaro, Virginia won numerous music awards throughout her career. She received prizes from the Metropolitan Opera Auditions, Mina Kaufmann Ruud Vocal Competition, Liederkranz Foundation Vocal Competition, YWCA Studio Club Annual Vocal Competition, Greater Miami Philharmonic Competition, and Florida Atlantic Music Guild Competition. These awards not only brought recognition and honor but also provided scholarships and grants.

Academic and Teaching Career

Virginia's involvement with higher education extended beyond her own studies. She taught applied vocal and music at Miami Dade Community College and served as the director of the vocal department at the School of Arts in Woodbridge, Virginia. Additionally, she worked as an administrator and radio host for the Washington radio station "Marti" for nine years.

Operatic Performances

Virginia was invited to perform in renowned opera theaters worldwide. She had the opportunity to work with the New York Philharmonic, Vienna Symphony, Miami Philharmonic, Palm Beach Symphony, Nova-Tamarac Symphony, and Florida Philharmonic. Some of her notable roles include Mimi in "La bohème," Micaela in "Carmen," Marguerite in "Faust," Susanna in "Le Nozze di Figaro," Elvira and Zerlina in "Don Giovanni," and Tatiana in "Eugene Onegin."