November 19, 2021

Jasmine Ismail is a Professional Studies Certificate candidate in the Vocal Arts program at MSM.  She’s featured in the MSM Opera Theatre’s production of Katie: The Strongest of the Strong, taking place on NOV 18, 19, and 21st, that’s part of MSM’s Opera Outreach program.

Jasmine talks about Katie: The Strongest of the Strong why she chose MSM, and her hopes and dreams for the future. 

Please note if attending the concert in person: Presentation of proof of vaccination and i.d. is required. Masks must be worn at all times inside the MSM building

Tell us a little about yourself!

Jasmine: I’m from Winston Salem, North Carolina, and I received my Bachelors in Music from Boston Conservatory, and my Masters in Music from Manhattan School of Music. I’m currently studying at MSM for a Professional Studies Certificate with Ruth Golden, and in my free time I enjoy going to new restaurants around NYC, trying new makeup looks, and going to performances all over the city especially at the Metropolitan Opera.  I also sing in the Riverside Church Choir on the weekends.

Tell us about Katie: The Strongest of the Strong and what it’s like being a part of this performance?

Jasmine: Katie: The Strongest of the Strong is about an Austro-American, Katie Sandwina  who is a weightlifter turned suffragette icon. I’m singing the role of journalist named Marina Martin, who is the narrator of the opera.  Katie outlifts the strongest man in the world and then joins the circus, and later in life she plays a big part in the suffrage movement.  Working on this production and singing this amazing music has been a joy. What is even better is bringing the story of Katie Sandwina and Women’s Suffrage to life! I’m extremely thankful to be able to sing and perform in these very uncertain times, and am so grateful for MSM for giving students many performing opportunities.

Why is opera outreach important to you?

Jasmine: Being a part of Opera Outreach is very important to me because Opera is important to me. I really love how Carleen Graham, the Associate Dean & Director of Vocal Arts, is making opera outreach a big part of the voice curriculum.

Katie: The Strongest of the Strong is a work that is near and dear to her heart and I’m so honored to be a part of an opera that is so important to her. This opera not only exposes the art form to young children, but it also sends a positive message. In Katie: The Strongest of the Strong the overall messages is that beauty and strength come in all shapes and sizes which is so important for our elementary school students performances. By bringing in outside audiences and having Q & A sessions, it is connecting the MSM Opera Program to the outside community.

What projects are you working on now?

Jasmine: I’m currently in rehearsals for MSM’s Mainstage production of Orpheus in the Underworld  by Jaques Offenbach where I’m singing the role of Diana. That production premieres on December 9 and runs through December 12. I’m also auditioning for summer programs and opera residency programs outside of school!

Why did you choose MSM? Which factors were most important to you in the decision process?

Jasmine: I am so grateful that I chose MSM for my Graduate degree and my Professional Studies. The contacts that I have made at this school are invaluable. One of the main reasons I love MSM is because of the coaches and teachers I get the privilege to work with. They all have a wealth of knowledge about the performing arts industry and know how to help us achieve our goals.

What are your hopes and dreams for the future?

Jasmine: My hopes are to continue to work as a performing singer and make many wonderful connections along the way. I’m thankful for the incredible people I’ve worked with at MSM over my 3 years here.

MSM Opera Theatre Presents:
Katie: The Strongest of the Strong

NOV 18 & 19 | THURS & FRI
10:15 AM

NOV 21 | SUN
5:30 & 7:30 PM

Greenfield Hall 

Presentation of proof of vaccination and i.d. is required. Masks must be worn at all times inside the MSM building 

Manhattan School of Music
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New York, New York 10027