Prescott School District music director Jeremy Irland will perform as baritone

 Walla Walla- On May 7, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. in Cordiner Hall, the Walla Walla Symphony will close the 112th Season with "A Night at the Opera," an evening of beloved arias from popular operas like Verdi's Rigoletto and La traviata, and Rossini's Barber of Seville, as well as hidden gems of the opera world performed by Jennifer Welch-Babidge, soprano; Sarah Mattox, mezzo; Marcus Shelton, tenor; and local favorite Jeremy Irland, baritone.

In addition to this special evening of music, the symphony will be announcing its 2019-20 season.

Hailed by critics worldwide for her complete performances as both singer and actor, soprano Jennifer Welch-Babidge is known for her sparkling vocal technique, her natural stage presence, and both her dramatic and comic acting ability. Lauded by Opera News for a voice that is "agile and beautifully projected, with a lavish bloom and a silvery edge," Ms. Welch-Babidge has performed often on the stage of the Metropolitan Opera.

Sarah Mattox, mezzo-soprano, has appeared in principal roles with many companies nationally, including the title role in Walla Walla Symphony's May 2015 production of Bizet's Carmen. Also at home on the concert stage, Ms. Mattox has made several appearances at Benaroya Hall with the Seattle Symphony and with several other Pacific Northwest ensembles.

Originally from the greater Seattle area, tenor Marcus Shelton has performed a variety of lead and supporting work with numerous companies and in various venues all over the Pacific Northwest. Marcus has also had a number of successful cross-over opportunities, including performing the national anthem for the Seattle Seahawks more than any other singer or artist over the past 25 years.

A frequent performer with the Walla Walla Symphony, baritone Jeremy Irland is an avid performer and recitalist whose voice has been praised as having "a beautifully rich consistency and clarity." Mr. Irland is currently on the voice faculty at Walla Walla University and he serves as the director of music for Prescott schools.

The "Inside the Music" Pre-Concert Talk begins shortly after 6 p.m. in the lobby of Cordiner Hall. Before the concert and during intermission, enjoy a glass of wine from featured wine sponsor Isenhower Cellars for $5 a glass (all proceeds benefit the Walla Walla Symphony). A variety of sweet treats will also be available to purchase in the lobby.

Single tickets are $18-29 for adults, $10-16 for university/college students (with ID), and $5 for youth 18 & under. Tickets can be purchased online (wwsymphony.org), by calling (509) 529-8020, by visiting us at the Symphony office at 13 1/2 E Main St., Suite #201 or at the door.