YoungArts

Voice

Karen Parks serves on the Presidential Advisory Council for Furman University. She was the first artist to record an English language album of Finnish classical music from Finnish poetry. A Fulbright scholar, she is also the recipient of the Cadeau Foundation Grant and won the Puccini Competition. Ms. Parks has also been nomination for an Olivier Award. She has established a production and recording company, and a private voice studio. Recently Ms. Parks has returned as voice instructor to the Fine Arts Center.

Nicolas Bearde, a charter member of a world-renowned a cappella group, has long been recognized as an adept and fearless vocal improviser. He teaches vocal and performance technique at the Jazz School in Berkeley and Jazz Camp West. He has produced three solo albums on his own record label. A noted stage, screen and television actor and voice over talent, Nicolas’ credits include films with Clint Eastwood, Richard Gere, Michael Keaton and Uma Thurman.

Wayne Sanders is co-founder of Opera Ebony and has served as its Musical Director since the company’s inception in 1973. Under his direction, Opera Ebony has gained international prominence—performing in the United States, Europe, South America, Canada and the Caribbean. He has been awarded numerous honors within the United States and Europe. Mr. Sanders is currently on the voice faculty at Sarah Lawrence College in New York.

Chair / Julie Silvera is a three-time Lionel Hampton winner in vocal jazz performance and a two-time Downbeat Magazine Winner in the college vocal category. She has appeared on stage as both vocalist and conductor.  She is a well-respected vocal instructor and currently works at the American Heritage School in Boca Raton, as well as being the Choral Conductor for Unity on the Bay in Miami, Florida.