Meet the Newest Members of the Ryan Opera Center Ensemble

This season, the Ryan Opera Center welcomes six amazing new artists, all with incredible resumes and promising operatic careers ahead. We’re here to tell you a little bit about what they’re like off stage. 

Soprano Emily Pogorelc hails from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and has an insatiable hunger for learning. Her interests range from Impressionist art to Broadway plays, and in high school, she learned every piece on a four page recommended repertoire list provided to her by Lyric’s own Roger Pines. 

Mezzo-soprano Kayleigh Decker, a Woodstock, Maryland native, is a lover of animals, reading, and early music, and plays violin and bassoon in between singing gigs. 

Tenor Eric Ferring of Dubuque, Iowa is an advocate for Great Dane Rescue, and loves working out and exploring his new city. 

Baritone Christopher Kenney hails from Hawley, Minnesota, and is an avid aviator and licensed pilot, and finds any excuse to be airborne. 

Puerto Rican baritone Ricardo José Rivera enjoys swimming and playing video games, and is on the hunt for the best Italian food in Chicago. 

Bass-baritone David Weigel, originally from Asheville, North Carolina, is currently pursuing a doctoral degree from University of Michigan. Although it is somewhat unusual for a young singer to complete a doctorate while pursuing an active performing career, David feels that his academic pursuits, particularly as a voice teacher, make him a better artist. 

We can’t wait for you to get to know these fantastic singers, both on and off stage!