Athlone Artists has announced that mezzo-soprano Stephanie Sanchez has joined their roster of talent.

An alumnus of New Mexico State, Sanchez recently debuted with Austin Opera in a solo recital of works by Mexican and Latin composers, and sang the role of Ines in Francesca Zambello’s production of “Il Trovatore” at the 2021 Glimmerglass Festival. NMS’ choral director, Dr. Jerry Ann Alt, was the one who introduced Sanchez to the university’s newly-appointed opera studies director, tenor Andrew Zimmerman. Through Zimmerman, Sanchez was introduced to opera, being inspired by a production of “L’Elisir d’Amore,” and began attending young artist programs after receiving her master’s degree in music.

“Recently I started to venture into the bigger rep under the guidance of my current teacher, Braeden Harris,” Sanchez said in a statement issued by Athlone Artists. “When I got to sing Azucena a year ago that was my ‘aha!’ moment. It was the first time I got to dip my toe into that repertoire, and it was thrilling! While it may be a few more years before I sing my first Eboli, I’ll gladly take a Carmen, Charlotte, or ANY Valkyrie while I wait.”

Upcoming engagements for Sanchez include the role of Third Lady in “Die Zauberflöte,” with Opera Theatre of St. Louis, and as the Mother in Mark-Anthony Turnage and Rory Mullarkey’s “Coraline” with West Edge Opera in August.