Growing up immersed in strong music programs, Rachel sang in every choir available and performed in numerous musicals, discovering her true calling on stage. Although musical theater and popular music were her first loves, Rachel’s journey into opera began in high school with private voice lessons from the esteemed Sharon Szymanski. She vividly recalls the moment Sharon exclaimed to her mother, “I think we may have an opera singer on our hands here!”—a pivotal moment that ignited her deep appreciation for the art form.
In college, Rachel pursued vocal studies and experienced her first opera, a revelation that left her captivated. Witnessing performers sing over a full orchestra—without amplification—and tell dramatic stories in elaborate costumes was exhilarating. The challenges of singing in different languages and mastering the complex technique of opera intrigued her and fueled Rachel’s dedication to this art form.
Now, as a classically trained Soprano with over 15 years of professional experience, Rachel holds an MM in Voice Performance from Manhattan School of Music and a BM in Voice Performance and Music Education from Appalachian State University. Rachel’s journey has taken her across the US, performing with renowned opera companies and symphonies at venues like Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center, The Santa Fe Opera, and Canton Symphony Orchestra, to name a few.
Alongside her performing, Rachel has been dedicated to teaching, giving master classes and creating a positive and enjoyable learning environment for all of her students. As well as learning technical skills, Rachel believes it is important to empower her students to gain self-esteem, cultivate a sense of freedom in their bodies, gain performance experience and explore a variety of genres and styles during his/her/their musical journey.