DU Alumna Receives One of Opera’s Highest Honors

Sarah Cambidge Chastain, a graduate of the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music, has been awarded one of the highest and most prestigious appointments in opera. Chastain has been named a 2017 Adler Fellow at the San Francisco Opera, one of only 13 people to receive the honor.

“This is one of the most prestigious and strategic positions for a young singer to hold, working with world class coaches, directors, conductors and singers,” says Kenneth Cox, director of the Lamont opera theatre.

The Adler Fellowship provides coaching, professional seminars and performance opportunities with the San Francisco Opera for young artists. The experience gained has propelled the careers of many previous Adler Fellows.

“Sarah’s selection as an Adler Fellow is an incredible achievement for her and also speaks highly of Lamont’s opera theater programs and our faculty,” says Nancy Cochran, director of Lamont. “I am absolutely thrilled for Sarah’s opportunity and expect to see her make an important impact on the opera world in the near future.”

Cambidge was born and raised in Vancouver, B.C. She came to DU after receiving a scholarship to study voice and graduated with both bachelor's and master's degrees in vocal performance.

As Sarah’s voice teacher it is so satisfying to see her succeed like this, knowing that she has worked so hard,” Cox says. “Her positive attitude towards her craft and her colleagues is inspiring to watch as she continues to grow her talents.”