“In the heart of Novafeltria with Classic Lyric Arts, I experienced not just musical growth but a rediscovery of my love for music itself.”
Sooin We and Justin Hong backstage during a performance.
This summer, I spent two-and-a-half unforgettable weeks in Novafeltria, Italy, participating in Classic Lyric Arts. What I thought would be simply an intensive training program turned out to be so much more than I ever expected.
Each day at CLA was filled with music: intensive coachings, rehearsals, language sessions, and performances that constantly pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way. The schedule could sometimes be demanding, but it was also incredibly rewarding, balanced by the joy we shared after rehearsals, through conversations, laughter, and community!
Jennifer Ferrera, Sooin We, and 2025 CLA Italy Artists performing.
I could feel myself growing not only as a singer, but also as a storyteller and collaborator.
What truly made this experience unforgettable was the people. I was surrounded by incredible faculty members and incredibly talented, passionate colleagues. There was a real generosity in the way we worked together, supported one another, and shared both our challenges and our triumphs. It was a community built on respect, encouragement, and a deep, shared love for music!
There were so many special moments: singing in Italy, performing for native Italian speakers, sharing meals after long rehearsals, and sitting in on masterclasses that deeply inspired me.
Daniel Isengart and the 2025 CLA Italy Artists after a performance.
But more than anything, CLA gave me the space to reconnect with the heart of why I sing—to remember that music is not just about practicing or performing, but about loving, sharing, and experiencing life through it.
This experience left me with a full heart; grateful for the music, the people, and the learning. CLA reminded me why this path in music means so much to me.