|
Mathew
Edwardsen hails from Indianapolis, Indiana but lived for many of his
formative years near Springfield,
Illinois. His older brother inspired him to join the school choir
in 7th grade, and thus began a lifelong love of singing.
In high
school he took private vocal instruction and began performing in
musicals where he discovered an affinity for acting and performance. Mr.
Edwardsen subsequently graduated from Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois with a Bachelor
of Fine Arts degree; receiving a well-rounded foundation in music,
acting and dance. It was here that he first discovered the
unbridled passion that is opera!
Upon
graduation he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career as an actor in television and
film. During this period he performed in many stage productions
and a small number of student films. Fate intervened however, when he
met esteemed vocal instructor Joann
C. Zajac. She re-introduced him to opera, and there was an
instant connection. Joann has instructed him now for a number of years. Her direction enabled him to develop solid vocal
technique and complete the difficult transition from baritone to tenor.
Mathew has now performed many
of opera's most beloved leading tenor roles, such as Don Jose, Rodolfo,
Pinkerton, Nemorino and Alfredo, and has even performed at the world
premiere of a new opera. He was a district winner and received an Encouragement
Award for the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions. He was also
chosen for the Apprentice Program with Santa Fe Opera and the Gerdine
Young Artist program at the Opera Theatre of St. Louis.
Mathew
currently resides in Los Angeles, California. |