“Whether it was rethinking how I approached consonants in my Italian arias or developing deeper emotional connections in performance, the guidance I received at CLA made me more refined, more confident, and more in touch with my unique sound.”
Eva Maria Summerer, Justin Hong, and Raphael Fusco
CLA Italy was the perfect program for immersing myself in the Italian language while deepening my identity as an artist. Having never been abroad before, and fresh off my very first Young Artist Program just a month prior, I arrived in Novafeltria with a mix of anxiousness and excitement, ready for whatever the next three weeks would bring.
I’ll admit—I was nervous. New coaches and faculty can be daunting, especially after past experiences where some coachings left me feeling more confused than vocally secure. But at CLA, that fear quickly dissolved. Every single faculty member, from acting coaches to language specialists, contributed to my growth—technically, artistically, and personally. Whether it was rethinking how I approached consonants in my Italian arias or developing deeper emotional connections in performance, the guidance I received at CLA made me more refined, more confident, and more in touch with my unique sound.
Glenn Morton and Justin Hong
Beyond vocal technique, the conversations I had about career development and navigating the performing arts world were invaluable—especially as a young tenor entering the final year of my master’s degree. The faculty's genuine care, encouragement, and passion for teaching created an environment where every singer felt truly seen, heard, and supported.
Outside the rehearsal room, the experience was just as impactful. Novafeltria quickly became my Italian home-away-from-home. The hospitality, the warmth of the community, and the connections I made—both with fellow artists and local residents—were unforgettable. From daily gelato binges to dancing in the piazza, I found joy in the little moments that made each day special. I’m not ashamed to admit that I shed a tear during my final meal at my favorite local restaurant.
2025 CLA Italy Artists (
Performing in Italy was equally unforgettable. Singing in a place where opera originated gave everything a deeper resonance. Whether we were visiting Dante’s tomb in Ravenna or performing at the breathtaking Castello di Gradara, I felt the soul of the art form surrounding us. Italians love opera—you can feel it—and that love reaffirmed why I chose this path.
To say I’m grateful for CLA Italy would be an understatement. This program changed me. If you're lucky enough to participate, I’m confident it will change you, too.