Nine students from the University of Nevada, Reno attended an intensive two-week course last year in Italian voice lessons, opera scenes rehearsals and body movement courses. The experience ended with each student performing in an opera gala where they sang an aria developed by the coaches.

University Assistant Professor of Music Olga Perez Flora was proud of the opportunity they were able to bring to students who participated in the program. "This experience was created to enrich the students' artistry, to broaden their knowledge of the Italian culture and to incorporate a mind and body connection to singing," Flora said.