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When I was doing Humperdinck’s Hänsel und Gretel in New York, a conductor, Francisco Miranda, brought me to meet Valentin and told me he could solve all my problems with vocal technique. I clearly remember that Valentin showed me his unique, simple, but extremely helpful vocal technique in my first lesson. It was amazing. At the end of the lesson, I could effortlessly sing an aria from Verdi’s Macbeth, like singing an Italian folk song. "Singing is not difficult. Do not push your voice like HELL. " He said.

 

Now, I add big arias to my repertoire more and more, including some Wagner's works. I also have played more significant roles, such as Rigoletto from Verdi's Rigoletto and Scarpia from Puccini's Tosca, even Figaro from Rossini's Il Barbiere di Siviglia, an extremely challenging role for a dramatic baritone. Meanwhile, my vocal range is wider. My father, a dramatic tenor, has started asking me if I want to change my fach to become a dramatic tenor. I am very grateful to him for saving my voice and career. Besides, not only me, he helped my wife build her vocal technique, but it is another story.

 

Thank you so much, Val. We love you so much."