The Apprentice Artists program provides a platform for undergraduate voice students to gain performance experience with a professional company while working alongside and learning from Opera Orlando staff and guest artists. Currently, the Apprentice Artists program is a partnership with Stetson University, which allows singers to earn college credit through their participation in the program.
2025-26 APPRENTICE ARTISTS
Soprano Alyssa Pimentel, from Palm Coast, Florida, is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Music in vocal performance at Stetson University, where she studies with Dr. Karen Coker Merritt. Ms. Pimentel has already received numerous honors for her artistry. She was featured as a soloist in Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing for the FMEA All-State Chorus in 2023, earned a Superior with Distinction at Florida State Solo and Ensemble and received the Outstanding First Year Music Major award at Stetson University in 2024. Her stage credits include Nettie Fowler in Carousel, Galatea in Acis and Galatea, and the Countess in Le nozze di Figaro. She was also featured as a soloist in Stetson’s “Return to Broadway!” concert. In addition to her participation in the Apprentice Artists program this season, Miss Pimentel will also sing the Witch in Stetson Opera Theatre’s Hansel and Gretel in the spring of 2026.
soprano ALYSSA PIMENTEL
Since beginning his vocal studies, tenor Evan Martinez has found immense joy in breathing new life into timeless roles including Tamino in Die Zauberflöte and Gastone in La traviata. He also embraces contemporary repertoire, performing the role of Farid in Hajar by Elisabeth Mehl Greene as part of the Dominick Argento Chamber Opera Competition at the National Opera Conference. Beyond the operatic stage, Mr. Martinez is an active performer of sacred works and oratorios, including soloist appearances in Handel’s Messiah and Mendelssohn’s St. Paulus. A student of the University of Central Florida and now Stetson University, he is completing his Bachelor of Arts in music. In addition to his participation in the Apprentice Artists program this season, Mr. Martinez is double-cast as the Witch in Stetson Opera Theatre’s Hansel and Gretel in the spring of 2026.
tenor EVAN MARTINEZ
For more information about the Apprentice Artists program email education director Sarah Purser at SPurser@OperaOrlando.org or call (407) 512-1900.
2024-2025 APPRENTICE ARTISTS
Rachel Castillo, soprano
Tajah Garrett, mezzo-soprano
Nicholas Dieux, baritone
Kenneth Browning, bass-baritone
2023-2024 APPRENTICE ARTISTS
Isabel Barbato, soprano
Nidia Guevara-Nolasco, mezzo-soprano