Masterclasses offer rare opportunity to learn from professional opera singers
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POCATELLO — Aspiring singers and music enthusiasts in east Idaho have a rare opportunity to participate in or observe a series of voice masterclasses with two celebrated Boise-based opera professionals, baritone Jason Detwiler and mezzo-soprano Michele Detwiler.
With over 20 years of experience in the opera world and nearly 100 combined roles, the husband-wife duo is passionate about developing great singers and performing artists who convey emotion, story, and character through their music.
The Detwilers will present two educational masterclasses in collaboration with acclaimed opera singer Jordan Bowman of Pocatello, founder of Bowman Voice Studio, teacher at Kind Conservatory, and the event organizer.
“I have definitely worn many hats to make this happen,” said Bowman. “Jason and Michele Detwiler were my voice teachers and transitioned into my professional mentors after that. We are so lucky that they call Boise home, so I collaborate with them quite often.”
The masterclasses will run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on March 31st and from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on April 1st at Kind Conservatory at 412 West Center Street in Pocatello. Admission is just $10 per class, with all proceeds helping to subsidize the cost of attendance. Event sponsors include the Pocatello Arts Council, Musicians West and Lookout Credit Union.
According to Bowman, the masterclasses will offer participants an immersive experience. Each session will feature six singers working on classical art songs, opera arias, or musical theater songs in front of an audience.
The Detwilers will provide guidance and feedback that will benefit the performers and the audience, helping to improve overall musicality, stage presence, and interpretive skills.
“I expect interested singing participants to be studying singing actively and to have a classical art song, opera aria, or musical theater song prepared to perform in front of an audience,” said Bowman. “The singing participant should expect to work the song they have chosen to present in a public setting with Jason and Michele Detwiler so that the audience learns from the experience as well.”
An additional event highlight is the accompaniment of Jaden Klein, a talented ISU student and concerto winner. Klein, who will accompany the masterclasses for the first time, is another local rising star whose involvement adds to the unique nature of the event.
“There will be a small fee (no more than $30) to perform, but I hope to subsidize the fee even more by our donors and sponsors. While an accompanist is provided, they may bring their own if the singer prefers. Singers will also be provided with a recording of their session for their own records,” she added.
Bowman emphasized the value of the masterclasses for both participants and spectators, saying, “For those interested in attending as audience members, this will be an incredible opportunity to see two seasoned professionals in action and learn valuable performance techniques. We expect attendees to leave with fresh insights and inspiration to continue their musical journeys.”
Following the masterclasses, on April 1, the Detwilers, Bowman, and renowned pianist Mark Neiwirth will present a free concert performance at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Pocatello.
The concert will feature works by Bellini, Gordon, Leoncavallo, Mozart, Strauss, Schumann, Verdi, and more and will be open to the community. Donations will be appreciated to support future events of this nature.
Bowman encourages early registration for those interested in participating in the masterclasses or attending as audience members, as space is limited. Interested singers must contact Bowman at bowmanvoicestudio@gmail.com to secure a spot.
Bowman is also seeking sponsors who share a passion for supporting music education and community performance. Those interested in sponsoring should email Bowman or call her at (208) 201-3782.
“This is an incredible chance to experience world-class instruction and performance right here in southeast Idaho,” said Bowman. “We are so grateful for the community’s support and look forward to seeing everyone at these exciting events.”
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