Sarah Dufresne

“My time in Atelier Lyrique has contributed to my career as an opera singer in so many ways! The training I received on the program was world class and prepared me for the many challenges that this career presents. I also made so many connections with people in the industry, many of whom I have already worked with again. It is also a great feeling to know that I am part of a wonderful opera family in Montreal. Returning to sing in Hamlet last fall truly felt like I was coming home.”

“My most notable professional projects to date include creating the role of Frasquita in The Royal Ballet and Opera’s (Covent Garden) new production of Carmen as well as reprising that role this season (2025/2026) at Teatro alla Scala in Milan. I would also say that my debut as Ophélie (Hamlet) at Opéra de Montréal (which was an absolute dream role for me) was an incredibly significant experience for me and it helped me to grow so much as an artist. One of my favorite roles to sing right now is Gilda (Rigoletto) and I debuted in this role at Pacific Opera Victoria this past spring and will reprise the role this fall with Vancouver Opera.

I also value every opportunity to sing concerts with various symphony orchestras, this season I was so fortunate to sing Carmina Burana with Orchestre Symphonique de Montreal, as well as give concert performances of both Yvette (La Rondine) and Suor Genovieffa (Suor Angelica) with the London Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Sir Antonio Pappano. Our performance of Suor Angelica at the BBC proms was definitely a career highlight for me because of the incredible experience of singing in Royal Albert Hall which I would describe as the most rock concert-like of classical music venues.

One other significant project was having the privilege to record four Ravel songs for Malcolm Martineau’s new album “The Complete songs of Ravel,” which was released this past spring. It was my first experience with a professional album recording and was truly so special.”