StM News

This week, two St. Martin’s Upper School students—Aidan Molaison ’26 and MaryAlice Comer ’27—are among a select group of young vocalists from across the region participating in Opus Opera Bootcamp, a weeklong intensive for high school students passionate about classical singing.

Led by internationally renowned faculty including Bryan Hymel, Dreux Montegut, Irini Kyriakidou, and StM Choir Director Christina Vial Comer ‘91, the camp provides an immersive training experience in classical vocal repertoire, art song literature, and foreign language diction. Students will dive into French and Italian coaching, movement and breath work, and masterclasses designed to help them prepare for college-level auditions.

The program runs June 2–6, 2025, with the final showcase hosted in St. Martin’s Dan and Frances White Chapel on June 6 at 5:00 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

Participants are only strengthening their vocal technique but also gaining real-world tools, like how to record professional-quality audition videos using just an iPhone. It’s practical, performance-driven preparation for the next generation of classical artists.

Hosted on the University of New Orleans campus, this year’s bootcamp includes students from Jesuit, NOCCA, Holy Cross, Brother Martin, Ben Franklin, and St. Martin’s—creating a dynamic and collaborative environment.

“Opus Opera Bootcamp is about so much more than singing,” said Mrs. Comer. “It’s about finding your voice—literally and figuratively—and gaining the confidence to share it.”

St. Martin’s is proud to support this exceptional opportunity and celebrate the transformative power of the arts. The final concert will showcase growth, grit, and grace—and we can’t wait to cheer on Aidan, MaryAlice, and all the rising stars.