UNM voice professor makes Carnegie Hall debut

University of New Mexico Associate Professor of Voice and Opera Olga Flora recently made her debut as a soloist at Carnegie Hall, marking a milestone in her international performing career.

Flora performed as a mezzo-soprano soloist in Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Coronation Mass, a cornerstone of the sacred choral-orchestral repertoire. The performance brought together an international ensemble of singers and instrumentalists for a large-scale production at one of the world's most renowned concert venues.

"Performing at Carnegie Hall was a dream come true for me," Flora said. "I worked diligently to feel calm and present, which reflects what I teach my students about setting meaningful goals and following through with consistent preparation. I was proud to represent UNM on such an iconic stage."

Flora's debut highlights her continued professional engagement as both a performer and educator. She regularly integrates her performance experience into her teaching, providing students with insight drawn from work at the highest levels of the profession.

"Opportunities like this directly enrich the educational experience of our students," said Michael Hix, chair of the UNM Department of Music. "Dr. Flora's work at the highest levels of the profession informs her teaching in profound ways, and we are proud to support her continued artistic growth."

Her appearance at Carnegie Hall reflects the Department of Music's commitment to excellence in both teaching and creative activity, further strengthening its national and international presence in the performing arts.