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Shawna Stone is the critically acclaimed, award-winning operatic soprano, crowned “The hottest opera singer on the planet” by FHM.
Most recently known from the classical crossover duo Sasha & Shawna, her repertoire includes performances in nearly a dozen different languages from the classics of Germany and Italy to the modern works of Brazil and Czechoslovakia.
Sasha & Shawna’s debut album, Siren, on EMI/Manhattan Records, was produced by Grammy Award winning producer Peter Asher. Following its release in March 2007, Siren charted on Billboard’s top classical crossover albums, and was hailed by James Hunter of Rolling Stone magazine as: “...a gorgeous and haunting recording.”
In conjunction with Siren’s release, Sasha & Shawna performed selections from the album on the nationally broadcast PBS special, Heavenly Voices. Following the success of Sasha and Shawna, both women were inspired to pursue their solo careers. Shawna has been collaborating with producers and songwriters, ranging from hip hop to rock, as she develops her own unique style.
Her passion for singing drove her to study classical music form early childhood. Years of studying and practicing, combined with her talent and determination earned her a full vocal scholarship to University of Southern California’s School of Music.
Following graduation she began making her mark in the opera world, performing in various operas including The Merry Wives of Windsor, The Marriage of Figaro, La Traviata, Suor Angelica, L’elisir d’amore, and Orfeo ed Euridice. Her performances won her praise from critics and opera lovers alike.
Fluent in eight languages, Shawna has been honored with numerous vocal awards, including the Leni Fè Bland Music Grant for two consecutive years, and first place in the coveted I Malatesta singing competition in Cessena, Italy.
Shawna was chosen by conductor Stefano Vignati for the leading role in Verdi’s Falstaff at the magnificent Basilica di San Clemente in Rome, marking her impressive European debut. While still in Rome, her performance as Cleopatra in Handel’s Julius Caesar earned the California-born singer, one of her most prestigious achievements: a coveted spot in Opera New York’s residency program.
Shawna’s performance of Adele in Strauss’ Die Fledermaus won critical praise from the New York Times, and launched a wave of opportunities, including a solo performance at the Safe-Harbor Performance Loft in SoHo, which led to a recording contract with EMI.
“It’s the most you can ask for from life,” says Shawna. “That the music you create somehow reaches out to people in some wonderfully amazing way that you weren’t expecting and can’t quite put into words.”
Shawna lives in New York City.
Someone has some serious esp! : ) I hope you had a great TG!! I am excited to know you will be around soon...I will have to plan on coming up and hanging with you guys! xo
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