Lyric Opera 2023-2024 Issue 5 - Cinderella

Lyric Opera of Chicago | 14 Award to his extensive credits, winning for “Best Classical Solo Vocal Album” for his recording with Joyce DiDonato entitled Songplay . He also serves as artistic director of the Harris Theater’s popular Beyond the Aria series. Terry’s pedagogy extends beyond the stage, emphasizing the need for artists to invest what he calls “150 percent” into every facet of their artistic life. He champions full emotional and artistic commitment, recognizing the intensity of the opera industry’s competition. “To have a successful performance career requires an incredible amount of dedication and effort,” says Terry. “The biggest thing for us to instill in our Ensemble is a love of learning and a love of the work. Because the work will only get harder, and there will only be more pressure as your career progresses. The stages get bigger and the expectations you put on yourself get higher.” Terry helps shape artists’ repertoire choices, advising on artistic expression and fostering genuine connections with audiences. He emphasizes authenticity, urging artists to shed insecurities and express their truth through music, words, and characters. Terry’s coaching sessions, tailored to artists’ upcoming commitments, focus on refining the myriad of details to the highest possible level. The guidance spans language, musical interpretation, and encouraging uniquely personal perspectives in character portrayal. The diverse repertoire studied by Ryan Opera Center members, from classical arias to pop songs, challenges the artists to showcase versatility beyond traditional boundaries. Terry’s own fulfillment comes not just from working with current Ensemble members, but also in maintaining relationships with alumni, offering enduring support and witnessing their subsequent successes. “Not many days go by that I’m not contacted by an alum. Whether it’s a question or just hello or seeking advice. And that’s really fun. I love watching them continue to succeed and make their dreams come true.” Julia Faulkner, Director of Vocal Studies, wholeheartedly echoes those sentiments and likewise fosters relationships with Ryan Opera Center artists that continue well past their Ensemble tenure. A soprano who enjoyed a successful international career, Faulkner developed a passion for teaching and has become one of the most sought-after voice instructors in the country. Her journey from accomplished performer in Europe to tenured professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison eventually led her to the Ryan Opera Center in 2013. She too emphasizes not only vocal and musical excellence but also the development of well-rounded performers Craig Terry works with Ensemble pianist Michael Banwarth,tenor Travon D.Walker,and bass Ron Dukes.