Posted: Tuesday, November 19, 2024

The University of Evansville (UE) Music Conservatory is delighted to announce that UE Opera has been awarded a generous $32,400 grant from the William E. Schmidt Foundation.

This impactful grant will support both the Schmidt Opera Series and the Schmidt Opera Collaborative, advancing music education and community outreach in Evansville and the broader Tri-State region.

The Schmidt Opera Series, a key element of UE Opera's on-campus productions, will receive vital funding to continue bringing high-quality opera performances to audiences UE. Additionally, the Schmidt Opera Collaborative will benefit from this grant, enabling outreach and education initiatives that engage and inspire residents across the region.

"We are profoundly grateful to the William E. Schmidt Foundation for their support of UE Opera," said Dr. Alanna Keenan, Associate Professor of Music at UE. "This funding reaffirms our commitment to advancing music education and cultural enrichment and will allow us to provide students and community members with exceptional opportunities to experience the arts."

Under the artistic direction of Dr. Keenan, with additional guidance from Dr. Dennis Malfatti and Dr. Gregory Rike, UE Opera has flourished as a dynamic force in the field of opera, enriching the lives of students and fostering a deep appreciation for the arts within the community. The Schmidt Foundation's grant will empower the program to continue its legacy of excellence and expand its community reach.

The grant also provides continued support for the Community Conservatory Study Grants, which are designed to give area students who may otherwise lack access to private study the opportunity to benefit from music lessons. This initiative reflects UE's dedication to creating a vibrant and inclusive cultural environment that supports budding young musicians and makes music education accessible to all. UE Opera previously received $25,000 in grant funding in 2023.

For more information about the UE Opera and upcoming performances or to contact the Music Conservatory, please click here.