Everyone in the state of Virginia knows of Peter Mark's talent, vision, intelligence, commitment, and charisma. However, my first, and continuing, impression of Peter is this: if he likes you, he hires you. This may seem like an obvious characteristic for an Artistic Director to have, but Peter is one of perhaps three I've ever encountered who simply hires who he feels is the best singer for the job, regardless of external factors. He offered me my first opera contract when I was fresh out of college, based solely on his belief that I would perform well, and he has done the same for other singers – many now world-famous – who otherwise would never have had the opportunity to begin their careers in such an advantageous way. Virginia Opera is, indubitably, the company it is today because of Peter Mark.

— Nmon Ford, Baritone

I met Peter Mark for the first time when I gave an audition for Virginia Opera two years ago, and after a few minutes I knew this audition wasn’t going to be a typical one. This gentleman in front of me wasn’t sitting behind his desk taking notes as most of the people who hold auditions do, but was instead conducting, breathing and silently singing with me. Just as if we were already performing onstage with the orchestra between us. After my first aria, he didn’t pronounce the mandatory “What else would you like to sing?” but rather asked me to sing this and that excerpt of different operas, specific excerpts that came to his mind in an apparently random order. He was not there to listen to a pretty voice: he was dissecting mine, weighing up its characteristics, strengths and weaknesses, analyzing my musicality and acting possibilities and clearly thinking in perspective, skipping the universally accepted conventions of auditioning and taking myself always an unexpected step forward.

Opera is a multi-disciplinary art, and Peter Mark, being a conductor, an instrumentalist, a singer and having a close relationship with composition can see and manage it from lots of different perspectives. He can see at the same time the microscopic details and the whole picture as well.

Moreover, Peter Mark deeply understands the human voice. During the vertiginous course of the opera -a continuous succession of no return points- Peter is there with you, feeling what you feel, and not only accompanying you but taking you to the maximum of your possibilities and taking care of you at the same time. None of those things is easy to accomplish, and he does them so naturally as if music were simply a part of his nature. Indeed it is. Thus, the performing situation turns into a highly creative experience in which a singer has the precise and necessary limits of the musical excellence achieved in rehearsals along with the freedom of developing new approaches to the music and the drama in each performance. This reminds me of Antoine de Saint Exupery’s book The Wisdom of Sands: “For I perceived that man's estate is as a citadel: he may throw down the walls to gain what he calls freedom, but then nothing of him remains save a dismantled fortress, open to the stars.” Rehearsals with Peter establish true solid foundations and walls, whilst performing with him develops true creative freedom based on those. Opera is also tradition, and preserving it while keeping it alive is the invaluable and colossal task that Peter Mark does.

Virginia Opera shares, of course, most of Peter Mark’s characteristics. Working there is always a wonderful artistic experience and an enormous pleasure. Each and every one of the members of the company, managers, costumers, makeup artists, technicians, stage managers and coachers work in a synchronized environment in which even the slightest detail is taken care of, as well as the particular needs of each artist. And again, the right choices Peter Mark makes in the auditions lead us singers to share this experience not only with excellent artists but also with exceptional people.

Should you need musical advice and support, there you have Joe Walsh, the company’s Associate Artistic Director, ready to help you, sitting at the piano, from the conductor’s podium or in rehearsal situations. During a performance, we singers don’t always know for sure what’s really going on. Joe will always appear at those moments to encourage and give support to you, being himself a true pillar of musical excellence. Once the performance is over, “Gus” Stuhlreyer, General Director, will approach you and add useful appreciations from the audience’s point of view.

The result of all this knowledge, organization and effort are brilliant and flawless performances at the highest level in the world of opera today. Moreover, Virginia audiences are quite knowledgeable about the Arte Lirico thanks to the abundant and well coordinated community programs offered by Virginia Opera as well as their excellent apprentice programs and rather enjoyable student performances.

Want to know who keeps opera flourishing today? Virginia Opera does.

— Gustavo López Manzitti, Tenor

Describing the influence and importance of Peter Mark in my life and my career is a privilege which cannot be reduced to a few quick phrases. However, there are significant words that easily come to mind and identify for me the essence of Peter's strengths: Opportunity, Vision, Endless Energy, Perseverance, Leadership, Innovation, and Dynamic Personality. I have known Peter over thirty years now from the time he first began with the Virginia Opera.

He saw the Opportunity to create an organization in an area of the country that was unaccustomed to the art form known as opera.

He had the Vision that this form of entertainment was going to be a success in Norfolk and with the help of like minded individuals, he has Persevered to preserve a flourishing company without pause for more than thirty years.

His Vision also extended to the young artists he chose to introduce to this new opera community. He was able to see, hear and "know" in the selection of his artists that these "unknowns" would soon be well on their way to major operatic careers. He has continued to "introduce" to the opera world these new and exciting artists while bringing to Virginia Opera a caliber of singer that represents the cream of the crop of new rising stars.

His Leadership and Innovation has created a nationally known, artistically and financially successful opera organization that not only brings audiences to the opera but brings opera to the people wherever they live and work.

Peter's Influence and Vision touched me directly when he "discovered" me through the normal audition experience and then by giving me the opportunity to perform several "firsts" with the Virginia Opera which have became corner pieces of my thirty eight year career. Together we learned and debuted Rigoletto, Tosca, Lucia di Lammermoor, and A Christmas Carol. My finest moments and greatest memories of the Virginia Opera are found in the opportunity I was given to create the role of Scrooge in Thea Musgrave's A Christmas Carol in both Norfolk and then in London for the Royal Opera and Granada Television. I still remember the creative process that comes with one's first encounter with a new opera and all the positive influence and personal growth generated by these collaborations.

My experiences with Peter and the Virginia Opera I will remember fondly as some of the best times of my career and I can only hope that every young artist beginning a career would have these same experiences to prepare them for the artistic and vocal demands of our business.

I can only close by saying that Peter has certainly left his "Mark" on the world of opera.

— Frederick Burchinal, Baritone

I feel that Peter is unique in that no one can argue his love for working with young singers. So few in this business have any interest in investing themselves in a young artist. Opera is an artform, a skill that must be passed down from the masters to the next generation of leaders in the field, and Peter is one of those special people who considers himself not simply a conductor, but really a maestro in the old style; one not responsible just for leading the musicians, but imparting his knowledge of the repertoire and style to the next generation of interpreters of this artform, for which he clearly fosters a deep love and respect. Peter invests in the young professional singers in this country like few of his peers. He not only hopes Virginia Opera audiences leave the theater having felt the beauty and power of opera, but he works tirelessly to impact fellow artists with his own passion and artistry. The future of opera depends on such as these. Congratulations and Thank you, Peter.

— Patrick Miller, Tenor

The first time I met Peter was at his apartment in New York City, where he invited me to talk about the Mephistopheles role in Faust. He was very frank and very encouraging. At the end of our discussion I was already looking forward to working with him. I have several great memories of him. First is when we were rehearsing Faust – he helped me gain a new perspective on Mephistopheles’ laugh. Another is about his conducting style; when he is conducting even during difficult pieces he makes me feel very relaxed so it helps to bring the best in my talent.

Since I worked with him on principal roles for operas I had not sung on large stages before, and because he, through his relaxed and convincing approach helped to make these experiences successful ones, I am now going to sing these operas on other big stages. Peter pays a lot of attention to the details with music and language which results in a successful performance. Playing these major roles at Virginia Opera helped my career by getting me ready to sing them in other major opera houses.

Virginia Opera has a very friendly environment and supports young talented artists from all over the world. I always look forward to coming back.

—Burak Bilgili, Bass

I have always enjoyed working with Peter over these past few years. His genuine and nurturing attitude toward young singers is quite a testament to him and the high standards he has set for Virginia Opera. I first met Peter when I was living in California and I sang for him at a beautiful beach house. It was an odd coaching to say the least. I didn't know what to expect from him and I certainly didn't expect a conductor to be so 'hands on" and "knowledgeable" of the voice. I mean most conductors hardly look at you during the opera let alone knowing how the voice works! It was a pleasant surprise and rewarding to get my voice to do what he wanted. He knows exactly what he wants in a singer or an orchestra and will do whatever it takes to get it. Not to mention that he has been such an integral part in building an artistically precise and always growing opera company. Virginians should be honored that he has spent so many years of hard work to build such a reputable company within the state and the opera community around the world is enriched with Peter's continued strive for excellence within this great art form. Maestro Mark, it has been my honor to sing on your stage and I promise I won't drag the tempo in the future! Congratulations on all of your grand achievements.

— Todd Robinson, Bass-Baritone

My first impression of Peter the first time I met him was; WOW! This man is really, really passionate about what he is doing. Cool!

During my time at Virginia Opera when I was a young artist; after a private coaching with Peter and the pianist, Peter said I have the voice to be a star. This was one of those moments where you just feel warm all over and your confidence meter just fills up. I also remember seeing Peter fervently address groups of donors, first-time opera attendees, and children to challenge and inspire them to support their opera company. This is the same passion that Peter brings to every aspect of Virginia Opera, from approving a poster to conducting these great works we have enjoyed for over 25 years.

The most important change in my life as a result of working with Peter was the understanding of the marriage between text and rhythm. Consequently, I will never approach recit the same way again because the way Peter relayed this knowledge of lyrics and rhythm. The most unique quality Peter possesses is the art of expressing himself without restraints. And of course without saying, he really cares.

Working at Virginia Opera has changed my life. It gave me the confidence I needed to do all things past, present, and future. Virginia Opera differs from other companies because you really feel you are part of a family – from the staff to the housers that I've met. And what I like most is the people who work tirelessly to support the vision of this great leader, Peter Mark.

I am very honored to be listed as one of the artists whose lives have been impacted by Maestro Mark.

— Eric Greene, Baritone

I first worked with Peter when I joined the Metropolitan Opera Boys Chorus in 1956. Peter was in his last year with the chorus, and was the leading soloist. His leadership and energy was apparent even back then. How nice to come full circle some 40+ years later to work with him again here at Virginia Opera.

Over the years spent watching him work with both singers in his main-stage productions, and with my Governor's School students in the many master classes he has done as part of the S.T.A.R. program, I am in awe of his understanding of the voice and the art form. Watching him listen to and work with my students and other singers is to see a man who loves his work, and most importantly, his music.

Being associated with Virginia Opera as both singer and assistant conductor over the last 10 years has been a wonderful experience for me. I have enjoyed working with Peter in 6 productions, and watched him work with the young singers he brings to the company. Virginia Opera is a great place to discover new vocal talent before singers become snatched up by the international circuit; Renee Fleming, Lawrence Brownlee, and Fabiana Bravo to name just three.

I wish Peter many more successful years of music making. Congratulations on reaching your first 100, and may there be many more!!

— Alan Fischer, Tenor and Department Chair, Vocal Music
The Governor's School for the Arts

With great joy, I congratulate Maestro Peter Mark on his 100th production with Virginia Opera. Peter Mark gave me my first opportunity to perform the role of Azucena in Il Trovatore during the 1989-90 season at Virginia Opera. Performing with an international cast of talented singers on the brink of major careers, I recall and treasure that time as most pivotal in my musical journey. Peter’s masterful musical direction, knowledge and experience, creative direction, and inspiring spirit enabled me to take the artistry I arrived with to the next exciting level. His personal and professional encouragement were instrumental in leading me quickly to an international career. Since my debut with Virginia Opera I have sung at the Metropolitan Opera and LaScala and in major opera houses in 27 countries. Peter Mark’s continuing enthusiasm for working with and mentoring talented young singers has inspired me to share my own experiences by teaching and coaching our next generation of performers.

What a ‘MARK’ he has had on my life! Bravo, and thank you, Peter!

— Barbara Dever, Mezzo-Soprano (Metropolitan Opera)

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Peter Mark on his 100th production with the Virginia Opera. I will never forget that first audition for Peter in New York, shortly after I had graduated from the Conservatory and won the Met auditions.

His auditions provided such a relaxed and enthusiastic environment for a young singer, boosting my confidence so that I could give my very best audition. He then hired me on the spot to sing the role of Mercedes in Carmen.

After arriving in Norfolk and starting rehearsals, Peter heard me in the Card Trio and said, I want to add a student matinee performance and give you the opportunity to learn and perform your first Carmen. I seized that opportunity with castanets on and under his tutelage, I gave my first Carmen performance with the Virginia Opera in 1986. That literally changed my life and career path since this infamous gypsy became my calling card signature role and I have now sung that role over 200 times, worldwide, including performances at the Metropolitan Opera, opposite tenor, Placido Domingo.

Peter Mark has the best ears in the business and has a true insight and tireless dedication to promoting young talent. Working with Peter was never a job, it was a joy and I have continued to enjoy his loyal friendship and support during the past 22 years of my career. I am honored to be a small part of this recognition of his overwhelming artistic commitment to the world of opera.

Thank you from the bottom of my throat and heart,

— Victoria Livengood, Mezzo-Soprano

Peter has been like a father to me while in the United States. My life has been exciting since I met him, having the greatest opportunity to sing the parts he offered me. There is no comparison to any other experience I have had. Working with Virginia Opera is a wonderful experience, very professional staff, a wide environment with people who host us, being able to walk around the city and then to rehearsal.

Peter is unique in his way of working with me; it’s smooth and always open to discussion. He understands me as no one else. I feel free and able to explore new sensations and techniques and lines. He’s always up for private extra sessions; who does that? Thanks to Peter for everything and I hope I’ll make him proud. Singing is not easy and he has helped, and will continue to help, me a lot.

— Manon Strauss Evrard, Soprano

Congratulations Peter! I celebrate you today and always as you are a blessing for which I will be eternally grateful. To me you are a fulfiller of dreams. Thank you for believing in me.

With love,

— Cristina Nassif, Soprano

My first impression of Peter Mark was great. We met at Catholic University in Washington, D.C. and he was very warm, which made my audition easier. My best memories of him are from our Tosca; it was such an amazing production! He gave me the opportunity to do the role for first time at Virginia Opera, then we went to China together to perform it in Shanghai in 2005.

Peter changed my life by offering me experience, which gave me the self-confidence to perform so many extremely difficult roles. When he offered me the chance to step into the role of Countess Almaviva in the 1999 production of The Marriage of Figaro, it made me feel so good because he believed in me as an artist.

What makes Peter most unique is his love for music and singers, his dedication, his temperament, and his energy! He has been like a musical father to me.

At Virginia Opera, I had the opportunity to perform so many operas for the first time, after which I was ready to perform anywhere in the world. Virginia Opera is at the level of the highest Opera companies in the world, but always still feels like a big, warm, welcoming family.

— Fabiana Bravo, Soprano

I first met Peter while auditioning for Eugene Onegin in 2006. He struck me as someone with a lot of charisma and yet one with a big heart- a special combination. My first impressions were confirmed when he gave me the opportunity to sing my dream role of Tatiana in Eugene Onegin last season. His strong leadership on the podium, coupled with his caring and generous spirit, made this an unforgettable experience. (I must confess that singing alongside my husband Patrick Miller also contributed to the specialness).

My experience working with Peter was fantastic. It was so gratifying to collaborate with someone who possesses such great musicianship, insightful knowledge of the singing voice, and willingness to explore different nuances of a piece.

— Veronica Mitina, Soprano

Thank you, Peter, for giving me the opportunity to sing some of the most fabulous roles ever composed! It is so thrilling to collaborate with a conductor who believes and trusts in the singer; in those moments we create a complete artistic experience! Working with you has been one of the great joys of my career.

Congratulations on your 100th production!

— Jane Redding, Soprano

My first production for Virginia Opera was singing the role of Brünnhilde in Die Walküre, and it was the first time I had the pleasure of working with Peter Mark.  He is one of the most engaging and energetic conductors I have ever met, hard-working and passionate.   Aside from  Ring Cycles with the Finnish National Opera, which had seven shows, and repertory performances in Germany, this company offers a singer the chance to sing a role the unbelievable number of 10 times in three or so weeks, in three different theaters. This is probably one of the most invaluable and helpful aspects of Virginia Opera. Getting to sing Fidelio with Peter two seasons later was even better since it was the first time for me to sing the role. I look forward to singing with Virginia Opera again and send my love and admiration to Peter on his 100th production!

— Susan Marie Pierson, Soprano

First of all, hearty congratulations to Peter! I remember Peter's passion and willingness to experiment. We did a most unusual Carmen together, but even more than the music making, I remember long talks and his humanity. In this business, that is a rarity and most memorable.

— Adria Firestone, Mezzo-Soprano

Peter is a musician who loves singers. As a string player he understands the voice very well. Performing with him is a wonderful experience as he chooses the voices he loves and you feel him singing with you from the orchestra pit. Your song is in his heart.

I loved the roles that I sang with you at Virginia Opera especially Romeo, Charlotte, Giulietta and Herodias.

I loved the people I met in Norfolk especially Dr. Billy and Vivien Mays and their children. You have great community support for the opera.

What I like the most about Virginia Opera is Peter Mark. He gives this opera company it’s very distinctive flavor.

— Trish McCaffrey, Mezzo-Soprano