We are very pleased to announce that this May we will be awarding over $40,000 in grants to twenty deserving young artists. After an audition process ten singers will be chosen as 2004 Career Bridges Grant Winners, sing before our panel of experts, and receive $2000 each in grants to study in the areas that the panel recommends. In addition, the 2003 grant winners will be re-evaluated and award additional grants based on the panel's recommendations.

Thus in our second year, we are fulfilling our purpose to provide continuing mentoring and financial support for a period of three years to each of our grant winners.

To give young artists the opportunity to fulfill their potential and to achieve the greatness that will enhance all our lives, we depend on your contributions. For more information, including how you can be a part of our important work, visit our website at http://www.careerbridges.org/, or write us at:
81 Pondfield Road, #346
Bronxville, NY 10708

Sincerely,

David Schuyler Bender
Founder and Artistic Director
Barbara Meister Bender
Co-Artistic Director

Madame Licia Albanese, the great soprano and Director of the Licia Albanese Puccini Foundation, received the Schuyler Foundation for Career Bridges' Distinguished Achievement Award at a Gala Concert on November 18th, 2003 at the Harmonie Club in New York City. The event was generously sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Jack Erlanger.

Madame Albanese, a source of inspiration, advice and financial support to countless talented young singers, expressed her delight at being able to support the goals and efforts of Career Bridges. Addressing both the audience and the singers Madame Albanese said "I want to compliment your very fine singers, beautiful voices, it is the first thing that you must insist, the beautiful quality, a quality made from God. The voice becomes more beautiful when the singer uses beautiful words. I love to teach. You [the Career Bridges Artists] must sing from the heart. You can't sing what the composers wrote you must create what the composers wrote. Don't be afraid of high notes. Think of what you are saying and say it with expression and then you sing beautifully without fear. I want to thank my colleagues, great colleagues, the beautiful words you said about me, and the beautiful award you have given me. I love youä I love you." [throwing a kiss to the audience.]

The Honorable Livia S. Sylva, former Commissioner to the United Nations during Mayor Giuliani's Administration introduced Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor of the City of New York, to the Gala audience. After noting his numerous contributions to the arts, she acknowledged his support of organizations like Career Bridges, dedicated to helping young people ÝShe concluded her remarks with a quotation for Plato:

Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the mind, flight to the imagination. It is the essence of order, and lends itself to all that is good and just and beautiful. May the all-embracing international language of music help us to pave the way to peace among all. From soul to soul, from heart to heart, from nation to nation under one god.ÝÝ

New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg issued a proclamation stating: "By focusing on the individual needs of each singer, Career Bridges uniquely encourages further specialized training, language study, diction, repertory and stage deportment, in addition to providing performance oppotunities and access to expert advisors. Young singers need time and support in order to fulfill their potential, and the members of Career Bridges have shown their dedication to the art of opera by providing much-needed assistance.

"Through hard work, dedication, and commitment, singers who have been supported by groups like the Schuyler Foundation for Career Bridges can give back to society by sharing their talents with the world.

"Now therefore, I, Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor of the City of New York, in recognition of the contributions of the Schuyler Foundation for Career Bridges, do hereby proclaim today, November 18th, 2003, in the city of New York as:

Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor

The Honorable Schuyler Chapin, Former General Manager, Metropolitan Opera 1972-1975, presented the Schuyler Foundation For Career Bridges Distinguished Achievement Award to Madame Albanese. In his remarks he referred to their collaboration at the Metropolitan Opera. He noted that in addition to the oft-praised qualities of her singing and artistry, and her devotion to the great vocal tradition, he was deeply impressed by two of her qualities. He stressed her sense of responsibility to the audience, always a highly consistent vocal and artistic performance; and her responsibility to her fellow singers, always supportive as a wonderful colleague.

Mr. Chapin, the former Commissioner of the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, is the author of many books including "Sopranos, Mezzos, Tenors, Bassos and Other Friends," and the noted biography of Renata Tebaldi. He has received numerous awards including The National Order of the Legion of Honor, presented by the French Government, and The Award for Distinguished Service to the Arts by the American Academy of Arts and Letters.

Peyton Hibbitt, Co-founder/Artistic Director of Tri-Cities Opera, is Conductor and Music Director for TCO and vocal coach for the Resident Artist Training Program.

He has dedicated the last fifty five years to providing the opportunity for young singers to develop their skills. His teaching has given young artists a clear understanding of vocal technique, the practical knowledge of language, as well as stage craft. In his remarks to the audience and to the Career Bridges Award winners, Peyton underlined the necessity of not just making beautiful sounds but communicating the meanings of the music and character through the reciting of the text.

Peyton Hibbitt attended both the Philadelphia Conservatory and the Philadelphia Music Academy. He was the founder of the New York State Opera League, served in the U.S. delegation to the International Conference on the Education of the Young Singer in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Raymond Diaz - Last summer, Raymond sang the role of Col. Wadsworth in Central City Opera's Premiere of Gabriel's Daughter, and this fall bass Ýwas soloist in Handel's Judas Maccabeus for Bachworks in New York City. In addition he received an encouragement award from the Sullivan Foundation. He will be singing a supporting role in Fanciulla del West with the Utah Opera in the spring.

"It is a very tempting notion to pack it in, so to speak, and seek a vocation that is less stressful and more fiscally rewarding. Less than one half of one percent of students who study voice at a college or conservatory level is ever capable of working as a singer. Then, at that critical moment, when you're about to resolve to take your final curtain call, a voice cries out. Call it conscience, call it the will of the Almighty, call it whatever you like. Every singer who ever was has known this moment. For me, Career Bridges was that voice, a saving grace."

"Auditions do not intimidate me as they used to, and I think that is with just cause. I am singing much better and it's a result of an increase of study on what needs the most improvement. While that sounds easier than it is, the idea is very basic, and Career Bridges has made these opportunities available for me. For that I am infinitely grateful."

Michelle Menick - Michelle played Yvette in Puccini's Rondine with the Opera Company of Brooklyn, traveled throughout Germany perfecting her language skills and studying German opera, and performed the role of Die Mutter in Humperdinck's Hansel und Gretel at the Purchase Conservatory of Music. Michelle will be playing Lola in New Rochelle Opera's upcoming production of Cavalleria Rusticana this May. "Career Bridges has lifted the financial burden of coaching, which is hefty, allowing me to fully prepare for my performances."

Sergio Maclean - Sergio has been coaching and preparing roles for future auditions. "Your assessment helped direct me into the right path and prioritize my goals. You have given me opportunities to perform alongside other singers in various events. I will always count Career Bridges an ally on my quest to cross that bridge that separates the advanced student from the young professional."

Nicole Aiossa - For the last few months, Ms. Aiossa has been working on new repertoire and preparing new roles in order to start the audition process. Nicole has also appeared in various concerts and performances in the New York City area.

"Career Bridges has made it possible for me to continue with my education in very specific areas, and I have been able to concentrate on what I require for a career".

Elizabeth Batton - Over the past year, Elizabeth has performed with the Indianapolis Opera as Charlotte in their production of Werther, with the Pittsburgh Opera as Hermia in A Midsummer Night's Dream, as the Third Lady in Die Zauberflote in Macau and China, and was a soloist with the Hong Kong International Music Festival. In addition, she recently had her seasonal debut with the Metropolitan Opera as a cover in Moses und Aron."

"Because of the Career Bridges Competition, and their tremendous financial support, I was able to fully coach my roles for the Moses und Aron, in addition to musically and dramatically coaching my audition arias for the fall audition season here in NYC."

You have allowed me to see myself through the eyes of those who might be hiring me or listening to me in an audience. Career Bridges has been a true blessing to me."

Chen Reiss - In the short time from being selected as a Career Bridges' Grant Winner last April to date, Chen Reiss has launched her career in a spectacular fashion. She recently made an impressive series of appearances including debuts at the Bayerische Staatsoper in Munich as Oscar (Un ballo in maschera) and as Blonde (Die Entf¸hrung aus dem Serail), and at Teatro alla Scala as Maria in West Side Story, a role she also performed all over Japan. The Israeli-born soprano next sings Le nozze di Figaro and Carmina Burana with the Israeli Philharmonic, and Nannetta (Falstaff) with the Bayerische Staatsoper, all conducted by Zubin Mehta.

"I am so grateful for the grants Career Bridges has awarded me to prepare for the above roles and to create new photos. Your support and recognition has given me great encouragement. "

Adelmo Guidarelli - His first European CD release was in October 2003. He recorded songs in German for the German children's album, Der kleine Tanzbar Schubidu. Recent performances include a Concert in Rome at The Chapel of The Twelve Apostles and Numerous Concerts throughout the New York the Tri-State area. Future performances include the Gala of the CosÏ Opera Company of Long Island February 2004, and a La Bohemè-(Marcello) with CosÏ Opera Company As a recording artist, Adelmo was recently signed to Twinz Records to produce his first solo recording.

"Career Bridges has enabled me to add more coaching hours each week, which in turn has given me a better understanding of how my voice actually works. Without their monetary support this would not have been possible."

Adrian Gans - Adrian was awarded a grant to enable him to attend the ILAR foundation in Rome where he studied and performed several roles. In addition He recently appeared with the Harrison Opera singing the role of Marcello (La BohËme).

"Career Bridges keeps me pointed in the right direction. The scholarship to study in Rome helped me improve my languages, stage presence and vocal ability. Most of all, the knowledge that you will be there to help me in the future, gives me feeling of support, backing and encouragement ."

Moira Girard - Moira has upcoming performances with the New Rochelle Opera in Menotti's The Telephone, and in Spring 2005 a yet-to-be-officially-announced major role with Tulsa Opera. She has performed in several concerts across New York and New Jersey.

"The sort of objective feedback that I have received from Career Bridges is difficult to find outside of a university/conservatory setting, and I have benefited from it immensely"

Kyungsun Choi - Kyungsun made her Carnegie Hall debut under the baton of John Rutter with Mid-America Production. She sang the soprano role in Mendelssohn's Elijah with New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, and a full recital concert in Seoul Korea.Ý

Future engagements include Haydn's Theresien Mass with the Stamford Symphony Orchestra and the role of Gilda (Rigoletto) at the Utah festival this Summer.

"Career Bridges has helped me to study with my musical coaches, which is extremely important. Without your support, I could have done nothing. I am truly thankful of Career Bridges' support."

Abel Moeng - Abel has been chosen to be a fellow of the Merola Program of the San Francisco Opera. This fall and winter he has performed with the opera companies in Pretoria and Capetown in South Africa, as well as concerts with the Long Island Symphony.

"Words are not enough. Career Bridges has really made my career. It has assisted me with employment and visa issues to an extraordinary extent. In short, "I am because of Career Bridges. "Halala (Well done) Career Bridges!"

We are pleased to announce that four distinguished artists have agreed to join our panel of experts.

• Cori Ellison, Dramaturg of New York City Opera
• Dora Ohrenstein, prominent voice teacher and president of the New York Singing Teachers Association
• Jane Thorngren, Soprano, NYC Opera, Live from Lincoln Center Telecast, international concert artist, Paris, London, Asia South America
• Walter Macneil , tenor, Metropolitan Opera , San Francisco Opera, Chicago Opera, Glyndebourne, Teatro Colon, Argentina

Professor Bender is a graduate of Columbia University and has received teaching fellowships at the University of Colorado, and The University of California. He is former Professor of Voice at New York University and at the Conservatory of Music in Vienna.

She began her career at the Metropolitan Opera Studio, and also sang leading roles at the New York City Opera. She was brought to Broadway following her discovery by Richard Rodgers, an event which led to her appearance on Broadway as Maria, in The Sound Of Music, and a subsequent two-year national tour. She has sung with the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera, the San Francisco Light Opera and at Wolf Trap, Chautauqua and in Milwaukee, starring in operetta and the musical theater. She has starred on European television with appearances in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Gala concerts with orchestras in Vienna, Munich and Berlin have brought international recognition to this "dynamic performer."

Together, Barbara Meister and David Bender, drawing on their extensive performing experience, have designed, planned, organized and given over forty master classes in singing, diction, presentational skills, and stagecraft throughout Europe, Canada and the United States.

In addition, the Benders have co-produced such productions as The Merry Widow, and The Student Prince. In these productions, they served as stage directors, coaches of singers, and artistic advisors for scenery and costumes.

David S. Bender and Barbara Meister Bender were recently invested as Knight and Dame in the Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem, Priory of St. Michael and St. George.

"We are so proud of our wonderful performers. We cannot emphasize enough how crucial your individual contributions are to our success in helping these gifted superb young artists."

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The Schuyler Foundation for Career Bridges is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.