Fall 2023
35
Philanthropies Awar
2 0 2 3 S I G M A A L P H A I O T A
This summer I had the pleasure of working with the Varna International Academy of Music performing in their production of
Mozart's The Impresario and Puccini's Suor Angelica. When I first arrived, I discovered that I had been cast in both musicals as
both principal and supporting roles. In Puccini's Suor Angelica, I was able to play Suor Genevieffa and in The Impresario, Madame
Silberklang. Over the course of the three and a half week program, I was able to meet many talented musicians and work with
the conductor of the Metropolitan Opera, Gregory Buchalter. The cultural immersion that was experienced through the program
allowed me to see both Bulgaria and Italy in a different light. What I loved most about my time during the program was the people
I met: other musicians of all different ages who are equally as dedicated to their craft coming together to produce an amazing
show that was performed all over these countries. I was even able to meet some fellow SAI sisters! I cannot be more grateful for the
opportunity.
KIANA BLAKE BARTLOFF
Summer Music Scholarship Recipient
