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 Joel Callonia Dyson, a 16 years old junior at Xavier University Preparatory School and a level III vocal music student studying classical and opera music with the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA). This past summer Joel received a scholarship from both Walnut Hill Arts in Natick, Massachusetts and NOCCA Riverfront here in the City of New Orleans.
The scholarship provided her with the opportunity to attend the Walnut Hill Arts Opera Program. She participated in an intense two week program, where she furthered her studies in voice technique/vocal coaching, acting, and music history. The program gave the aspiring student of the Arts an opportunity to meet other teenagers from all over the world interested in pursuing a career in the Arts.
Joel said, one of her most memorable experiences, while traveling abroad was learning about music and art from Benjamin Zander, a master teacher, renowned conductor and author. She said, He spoke to the group of young people about the book he authored, “The Art of Possibility” which, she believes changed her life for the better. Joel said,
she will always remember his encouraging words.
After a long intensive two weeks of study at Walnut Hill, all of the participants went to Italy for eight days. There, they visited and stayed in Macerata, Milan, Verona, and Bologna. The students were able to see castles, museums, historic places and sites, and also attend a live opera.
Joel had the privilege of attending the opera at Milan La Scala in Italy. (world-renowned opera house) and she also experienced what she considered, her favorite opera Rigoletto at the Colosseum (an elliptical amphitheatre in the center of Rome).
Joel believes the experience this summer inspired her to continue working hard at making her dream of singer in the opera a reality. She is grateful to God for the gift of music and the ability to share her gift with others.
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