He sang selections from Simon Boccanegra, Adriana Lecouvreur and Nessun Dorma! with all the tenors at the finalé.
In between his performances he ventured out further in the Jalisco region and worked with children though the global children’s organization Children International.
James played soccer, made arts and crafts, learned about the computer learning programs and most importantly made music with the children.
He sang for them and spoke of his career in the Arts and the talented children played and sang for him.
The Happy Hearts Fund, founded in 2005 by Petra Němcová, is a philanthropic organization focusing on rebuilding schools in areas impacted by natural disasters. It is active in nine countries and has built/rebuilt 113 schools and kindergartens. Their programs have benefited more than 50,000 children and 500,000 community members.
More info here: Business Insider
Inside the Hammerstein Ballroom, New York.
James with supermodel and founder of the Happy Hearts Fund, Petra Němcová.
James performing the national anthem.
James portrayed the hero Mario Cavaradossi in Tosca opposite star soprano Patricia Racette in performances with the Detroit Symphony conducted by Leonard Slatkin. It was broadcast on a live webcast from the historic Orchestra Hall in Detroit.
“Valenti was in Glorious voice as Mario Cavaradossi”
Read the full review here: Classical Source
James Valenti as Mario Cavaradossi, “Vittoria!!” Act 2 Tosca
James Valenti’s best, “E lucevan le stelle” with long ovation. Act 3 Tosca
James appears and sings on morning TV Fox 2 News Detroit
James was invited to perform at the opening gala of the Harare International Festival of the Arts. This was his first time traveling to Africa and his debut on this continent. James also had the privilege to visit with the U.S. Ambassador in Zimbabwe.
“Valenti caught attention of women in the audience. The six-foot-five and muscular figure drove women into frenzy as they cheered at him when he walked onto the stage”
Read the full review here: NewsDay
“Kudos to Valenti for an emotional and strong performance – Welcome to our continent!“
HIFA’ Lutin, April 30, 2015
While in between performances of Tosca, James Valenti led a unique fund-raising event for the Kansas City based global children’s organization, Children International. James is a celebrity ambassador and he was delighted to lend his time, talent and experiences in the field to help this organization reach new donors. The joyous event was held at the home of The Montagues in Mission Hills Kansas and was attended by some of the most affluent of the Kansas City area.
“I’ve always loved kids. Kids keep you very present and I’m always touched by their honesty and sincerity”
Read more here: KC Studio
And here: Mission Hills Magazine
James sang his first performances of Tosca with Lyric Opera of Kansas City to great acclaim. This will be a very important role in his repertoire.
“Valenti was a great Cavaradossi… This tenor does not go fuzzy when faced with the middle of the bass clef, he’s got it all. His ability to spin the highest notes into the softest, audible, sigh, caused listeners to beg for the note to continue forever. Alas, inhalation must occur.”
Read the full review here: Examiner
James was one of many star alumni who returned to Philadelphia to celebrate the 80th anniversary of The Academy of Vocal Arts. The gala dinner was held at the famed Bellevue Hotel and the concert at the Kimmel Center.
“Tenor James Valenti mesmerized with his volcanic interpretation of his tragic aria ‘E lucevan le stelle’ from Puccini’s Tosca.”
Read the full review here: Edge Media Network
James performs ‘Teco io sto’ duet from Verdi’s Ballo in Maschera with soprano, Marina Costa-Jackson. (Photos © Richard Doran)
James is the youngest ever to be inducted into the Academy of Distinguished Alumni. He was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the world of opera and for his humanitarian efforts.
With Paul Kreider, Dean of the College of Creative Arts
With fellow 2015 inductees
As a celebrity ambassador to the humanitarian organization Children International, James always finds time in his busy schedule to visit with children around the world. He recently visited agencies and sponsored kids in Legazpi, Tabaco, Quezon City and Manila in the Philippines. He was inspired by the very talented and empowered youth and the resilience of the culture. Despite mass devastation and poverty the people are very happy and content with life and find the greatest joy in singing and family.
James poses in front of the iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur.
Act 1 – Carmen Bizet, Don José admits he’s mad for Carmen
Carmen final duet “C’est toi, c’est moi”
James Valenti performed his critically acclaimed role of Don José in Carmen in performances with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra in Kuala Lumpur.
“His towering presence and deep register was magnetic and Valenti simply exuded the Herculean charisma inherent in his character….”
Check the glowing review from The Star Online here
After his performances in Buenos Aires, James traveled to Cartagena and Barranquilla Colombia to do some important humanitarian work with Children International. James sang Noche de Paz (Silent Night) with the children, played games and they taught him some spanish, played some soccer, made music with a youth orchestra and also teamed up with Tom’s shoes to help distribute gifts to the children.
James traveled to gorgeous Buenos Aires Argentina for his debut at the magnificent Teatro Colón as Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly in a new production by Hugo DeAnna. He made the most of his time by taking Tango lessons in La Boca, watching Polo in Palermo, shopping in Recoleta and enjoying nightlife in Puerto Madero. This also marked his debut in South America.
James portrays the tormented Don José from Bizet’s Carmen. This marks his début in this very important role.
The Alster in the center of beautiful Hamburg
Hamburg has more canals then Venice !
The public awaiting the performance
James on stage in Act 3 as Don José in Carmen
James Valenti was the star performer at this annual concert in Stonington CT. The Sergio Franchi Foundation was founded in memory of the legendary Tenor and gives grants and scholarships to young singers. James first performed here in 2001 and it remains one of his most favorite venues. It’s always a joyous day of celebrating music. James also finds time to go sailing and visit the historic Ocean House in nearby Rhode Island.
An audience of thousands enjoying the concert
With Eva Franchi, Giada Valenti and Filippo Voltaggio
Opera selfie, backstage with Latonia Moore, Sarah Joy Miller, Jesus Garcia, David Miller and Wes Mason
Sharing a laugh with Eva Franchi
James Valenti singing “Non ti scordar di me” on the jumbo screen
James sings “Con te partirò” with Maria Aleida
James was one of the star performers at the 9th Festival del Sole in the heart of wine country in Napa Valley, California. He delighted fans and performed along with stars like Joshua Bell. While there James visited many wineries and vineyards, attending various parties and even dined at the famous restaurant The French Laundry.
James performing in Yountville in Napa Valley.
Photo by Paul Richardson
James performing at Weill Hall in Sonoma modeled after Tanglewood
With Grammy Award-winning violinist and conductor Joshua Bell
At Keller Estate Winery including IMG Artists’ owner Barrett Wissman and friends
Napa Valley vista
Cruising around Napa
Achilles International is a non-profit organization that creates running programs and marathon opportunities to disabled veterans and offers them a strong community of support.
James performed there to help wounded soldiers.
James Valenti made his exciting debut at the Baden-Baden Festspielhaus in a thrilling concert of Verdi and Versimo repertoire alongside fellow opera star Anna Netrebko, with the Baden-Baden Philharmonic conducted by Pavel Baleff.
Baden-Baden is a vacation town in the German countryside known for its tranquil setting and natural healing baths.
Review from the Pforzheimer Zeitung Kritik – June 11 2014
“Ihr zur Seite der amerikanische Tenor James Valenti, dessen baritonal gefärbte, kräftige Stimme an Klangfülle mithalten konnte.”
“The baritonal sound of James Valenti’s strong voice was full of sonority and a perfect complement/addition to Anna Netrebko.”
© 2014 – Manolo Press
James Valenti recently traveled to the gorgeous city of Prague in the Czech Republic to record his first solo CD with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra led by renowned conductor Maestro Steven Mercurio. The album will be released by the end of this year and will be a collection of favorite Italian and French arias.
James Valenti attends the Merit School of Music Gala in Chicago to honor famous Opera star Renée Fleming.
With the beautiful and talented, Miss Illinois 2014 Marisa Buchheit
With Renée Fleming
While in Phoenix performing the Verdi Requiem, James appeared to speak of his career and serenades
with “Mamma” in honor of upcoming Mother’s Day.
James Valenti was recently honored with the Distinguished Alumnus Award from his alma mater West Virginia University College of Creative Arts. He traveled to campus to give a masterclass and speak to the students about a career in opera.
Being interviewed by College of Creative Arts Dean Paul Kreider
Receiving the Distinguished Alumnus Award
With Marilyn Horne and Renata Scotto
With James Morris, also a fellow graduate of The Academy of Vocal Arts
With Christa Ludwig
With Kristine Opolais, his colleague from the recent performances of “Madama Butterfly”
James Valenti was invited to the Ninth Annual Opera News Awards held at the Plaza Hotel in New York City honoring distinguished achievement and peerless artistry in the world of opera. James was surrounded by many legends that he grew up admiring, like Renata Scotto, Marilyn Horne, James Morris and Christa Ludwig and many of his contemporaries like Joyce Di Donato and Kristine Opolais.
James Valenti brings his signature suave Lt Pinkerton to the Met opposite fellow rising star Kristine Opolais. James began his career at The Met when he was a top winner in the 2002 National Council Auditions and continues a close relationship with this most Prestigious venue.
From the Wall Street Journal: Behind the scenes photos.
James Valenti sings the National Anthem before the Minnesota Timberwolves vs. New York Knicks game
at the Minneapolis Target Center on March 5, 2014.
“Valenti’s smoldering portrayal mesmerizes, and his chemistry with his female co-stars buoys the plot.”
Read the full review here: Twin Cities Daily Planet
James Valenti “handsome and charismatic” has a huge success portraying iconic film star Rudolph Valentino in Dominick Argento‘s “The Dream of Valentino“.
Dominick Argento’s revised ‘Valentino’ is a triumph for Minnesota Opera
“James Valenti, handsome and charismatic.”
“James Valenti’s Valentino, appropriately handsome and charismatic, displaying a rich-sounding, husky tenor, gives equal vent to the character’s insecurities and frustrations, suggesting that at some level the character knows he’ll never be as big or as interesting as his screen image. .”
See more of the Star Tribune glowing review !
James attended many events in New York City to celebrate the Super Bowl. It was a particularly special year as opera star colleague Renée Fleming performed the national anthem.
James at the Leigh Steinberg Super Bowl Party.
James with Nana Meriwether.
James with famed agent Leigh Steinberg and former Miss USA Nana Meriwether.
“The Catch” Super Game Day Party Experience.
A Night Divine at St. Patrick’s with James Valenti
The event was telecast Live on PIX 11
More info: operatoonity.com
More info: newjerseynewsroom.com
James Valenti headlined the inaugural “Opera at the Waterfront” free concert for the public presented by the Palm Beach Opera. “I live here in Palm Beach and I’ve had a close working relationship with this company for many years. I was delighted to be a part of this first time event and help PBO reach new audiences and make opera more accessible to the community. We had glorious weather and a huge turnout. It was a home-run for the company.” James also recently leant his talents for charity events for the March of Dimes and serenaded the ladies of Junior League Palm Beach at their annual Christmas Party.
James Valenti has been selected to perform at Christmas Eve Midnight Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC.
He will sing, “O Holy Night” during the Communion service and the event will be nationally telecast LIVE on PBS.
“I’m incredibly honored and excited for this opportunity,” says Valenti. “I was raised as a Roman Catholic in NJ and even attended Catholic School and was an altar boy for many years. To sing at the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral at the epicenter of Christmas Eve in NYC will be such a thrill for me and my family.”
More Info: St. Patrick’s Cathedral
James Valenti teamed up with friends and colleagues from his years at The Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia for a benefit concert to raise money for the Red Cross disaster relief aid following the Typhoon in the Philippines.
More info: Official Press Release
More info: www.broadwayworld.com
“Carlo, sung by tenor James Valenti, is just one of the production’s outstanding vocal talents.”
TODAY, SUNDAY NOV. 24th, LIVE FROM AUSTIN LYRIC OPERA, AT 2:50 P.M. CST
Don’t miss an exclusive live broadcast of Austin Lyric Opera‘s “Don Carlo” with Metropolitan Opera tenor James Valenti, on KMFA, Classically Austin 89.5 !
Statesman Preview: Don Carlo featuring James Valenti
Tenor James Valenti, who plays the opera’s title role, says that his character is a challenge.
“It’s a very politically charged plot,” Valenti says during a break from recent rehearsal. “But (Don Carlo) is unlucky. He wants to be strong, he wants to do the right thing, but he’s a victim of political circumstance, and he’s very tormented by that. He’s not a hero in the conventional sense.”
Valenti sang the role of Don Carlo (in the French version of the opera) at the Caramoor Festival in July to critical acclaim.
If Austin is new for the 36-year-old New Jersey native, the Lone Star State is not. He’s sung several times for the Dallas Opera, including the role of Alfredo in that company’s 2012 “La Traviata.”
Lyric Opera’s emotionally charged ‘Butterfly’ soars.
A formidable cast.
“Looking every bit a strapping naval officer and possessing a fluid, full-bodied tenor voice that could hardly be better suited to this opera, tenor James Valenti seemed completely at home in the role of Lt. B. F. Pinkerton. He made the most of the character’s soaring arias and managed to convey both the character’s blithe self-centeredness and authentic remorse at the end.”
See more of the Chicago Sun-Time glowing review !
See The Chicago Crusader article
See College of Creative Arts – West Virginia University article
Photo by William Bichara
Fame is a dangerous dance…
James Valenti will portray Italian silent film star/sex symbol Rudolph Valentino in a new opera about the actor’s life. A sultry young dancer is transformed from an unknown immigrant to a silent film sensation. Rudolph Valentino’s stardom blazed across the silver screen but was quickly consumed by the same forces that ignited it. Seduction and scandal swirl in this tango-tinged opera about an artist discovered and destroyed by Hollywood. It documents his meteoric rise to fame and inner turmoil to achieve his dreams. This highly anticipated opera, written by Pulitzer Prize winning composer Dominick Argento, will be presented by The Minnesota Opera in March 2014.
Don’t miss, “The Dream of Valentino“.
Tenor James Valenti and Soprano Anna Netrebko both attended Fashion Designer Zang Toi‘s show and the House Of Toi celebrity studded Opening Party.
Having dressed the likes of Sharon Stone, Gong Li, Eva Longoria, Fergie of the Black Eye Peas, Heather Graham, Devon Aoki, Farrah Fawcett, Patti LaBelle, Ivana Trump and Melinda Gates, Zang Toi is now considered an established name in the world of Haute Fashion. His timeless and uncompromising designs pamper women with elegance and glamour – inspired by his love of travel and fine living.
James Valenti and Ana Maria Martinez performed in the Chicago Lyric Opera concert Saturday night at Millennium Park.
“James Valenti, a sonorous and powerful Pinkerton (he will star in Lyric’s Butterfly in October), proved the evening’s most affecting highlight.”
A heartthrob, a diva, a beautiful night: Lyric at Pritzker
Tenor James Valenti, who sounds great and looks even better. (If there’s another tenor around with this, um, charisma, he’s not coming to mind.) Valenti will make his Lyric debut as Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly in mid-October, but not with Ana Maria Martinez, who was his bride for this night only. She’ll be opening the season as Desdemona in Otello, and will sing the title role in Rusalka, in February.
See Chicago Reader
Austin Lyric Opera (ALO) has announced that internationally acclaimed American tenor James Valenti will take on the title role of its season opener, “Don Carlo”.
“We could not be more pleased that James is stepping in to kick off our new season,” says General Director Joseph Specter. “His performance will add to the artistic excellence ALO strives for with every production, and his Hollywood good looks, powerful voice and stage presence will thrill Austin audiences.”
Both Specter and ALO Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Richard Buckley have worked and performed with Valenti before. “James is a world class artist in high demand!” says Buckley. “We are so fortunate that he has agreed to add this engagement to his already busy schedule. His voice and artistry are sublime, and I am excited that we will be able to present him in Austin.”
On December 14, 2013, Palm Beach Opera will present its first large-scale outdoor concert, “Opera @ The Waterfront” at the Meyer Amphitheatre.
The 90-minute program will feature soloists; a full chorus and orchestra; and a program of opera favorites, season highlights and show tunes. And if that’s not enticing enough, it’s also free.
Tenor James Valenti will headline the show. His international career includes performing opposite Angela Gheorghiu in La Traviata at the Metropolitan Opera and The Royal Opera in London. A resident of West Palm Beach, he’s also portrayed Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly twice and the Duke in Rigoletto at Palm Beach Opera.
See Palm Beach Opera Official Page See Palm Beach Daily News article
If you’re a fan of opera, you may be familiar with the many personas of James Valenti. James has played some of the most notorious characters to hit the stage, from lovesick leads like Goethe’s Werther to Puccini’s two-timing Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly.
But it was James’ role as Don Carlos that earned the tenor major spotlight recently. “It was very demanding,” he says. “You take on a new perspective about life after a role like that.”
In Verdi’s opera, Don Carlos suffers from a doomed love that leads to his imprisonment and eventual demise. It’s a classic story of want and despair – a theme James became better acquainted with when he visited impoverished slums in the Dominican Republic.
A sponsor since 2006, James was invited to visit Children International’s La Caleta sponsorship community after expressing a desire to promote the work of CI at his performances.
An adoring audience of sponsored children, youth and staff were waiting for him.
It wasn’t his notoriety as a professional opera singer that intrigued the kids, though. None had ever heard James’ arias, after all. Rather, it was his reputation as a sponsor – a real-life hero for kids – that excited them.
“This little girl came up to me and smiled and touched my arm,” James recalls. “She just wanted to hold my hand and be next to me. It was one of the most unexpected and sincere moments.” It was also the most memorable experience of his trip, he says.
New Jersey has had its share of famous singers. Frank Sinatra, Jon Bon Jovi, Whitney Houston, Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon, Sarah Vaughn to name a few.
Opera singers, too. Frederica von Stade, Barbara Bonney, Richard Crooks, Dorothy Kirstin, Paul Robeson (he did occasionally sing opera). And now…James Valenti, born in Summit, who will be singing the title role in “Don Carlos” at Caramoor this month. He’s already sung at the Met (“La Traviata”) as well as at La Scala, Covent Garden in London, Opera national de Paris, Deutsche Opera Berlin, and many other leading opera houses all over the world.
Valenti is only 35; he has a fine lyric-spinto voice (you can hear him in a variety of arias on YouTube); and he really knows his opera, rattling off the names of tenors he admires. (Especially Franco Corelli, but also Pavarotti, Gigli, Bergonzi, Mario del Monaco, and Giuseppe di Stefano.) He’s remarkably well-spoken, too. And modest and unpretentious: “In high school,” he confesses, “I decided to join the choir as a way to meet girls.” Gradually the music he listened to, growing up, went from Billy Joel to the Three Tenors: When he first saw them on TV, “I was awestruck.” He’s also quite courteous, thanking me graciously for urging him to listen to another tenor from New Jersey who sang at the Met, the great Richard Crooks.
No, Valenti is not your typical tenor: short and fat, à la Caruso, Gigli, Tagliavini, so forth. He’s 6 foot 5, slim, and good-looking — which, in the age of opera in HD, is a singular blessing for a singer who plays romantic leading-man roles.
See Newsroom Jersey
James was invited to perform at the opening gala of the Harare International Festival of the Arts. This was his first time traveling to Africa and his debut on this continent. James also had the privilege to visit with the U.S. Ambassador in Zimbabwe.
“Valenti caught attention of women in the audience. The six-foot-five and muscular figure drove women into frenzy as they cheered at him when he walked onto the stage”
Read the full review here: NewsDay
“Kudos to Valenti for an emotional and strong performance – Welcome to our continent!“
HIFA’ Lutin, April 30, 2015
While in between performances of Tosca, James Valenti led a unique fund-raising event for the Kansas City based global children’s organization, Children International. James is a celebrity ambassador and he was delighted to lend his time, talent and experiences in the field to help this organization reach new donors. The joyous event was held at the home of The Montagues in Mission Hills Kansas and was attended by some of the most affluent of the Kansas City area.
“I’ve always loved kids. Kids keep you very present and I’m always touched by their honesty and sincerity”
Read more here: KC Studio
And here: Mission Hills Magazine
James sang his first performances of Tosca with Lyric Opera of Kansas City to great acclaim. This will be a very important role in his repertoire.
“Valenti was a great Cavaradossi… This tenor does not go fuzzy when faced with the middle of the bass clef, he’s got it all. His ability to spin the highest notes into the softest, audible, sigh, caused listeners to beg for the note to continue forever. Alas, inhalation must occur.”
Read the full review here: Examiner
James was one of many star alumni who returned to Philadelphia to celebrate the 80th anniversary of The Academy of Vocal Arts. The gala dinner was held at the famed Bellevue Hotel and the concert at the Kimmel Center.
“Tenor James Valenti mesmerized with his volcanic interpretation of his tragic aria ‘E lucevan le stelle’ from Puccini’s Tosca.”
Read the full review here: Edge Media Network
James performs ‘Teco io sto’ duet from Verdi’s Ballo in Maschera with soprano, Marina Costa-Jackson. (Photos © Richard Doran)
James is the youngest ever to be inducted into the Academy of Distinguished Alumni. He was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the world of opera and for his humanitarian efforts.
With Paul Kreider, Dean of the College of Creative Arts
With fellow 2015 inductees
As a celebrity ambassador to the humanitarian organization Children International, James always finds time in his busy schedule to visit with children around the world. He recently visited agencies and sponsored kids in Legazpi, Tabaco, Quezon City and Manila in the Philippines. He was inspired by the very talented and empowered youth and the resilience of the culture. Despite mass devastation and poverty the people are very happy and content with life and find the greatest joy in singing and family.
James poses in front of the iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur.
Act 1 – Carmen Bizet, Don José admits he’s mad for Carmen
Carmen final duet “C’est toi, c’est moi”
James Valenti performed his critically acclaimed role of Don José in Carmen in performances with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra in Kuala Lumpur.
“His towering presence and deep register was magnetic and Valenti simply exuded the Herculean charisma inherent in his character….”
Check the glowing review from The Star Online here
After his performances in Buenos Aires, James traveled to Cartagena and Barranquilla Colombia to do some important humanitarian work with Children International. James sang Noche de Paz (Silent Night) with the children, played games and they taught him some spanish, played some soccer, made music with a youth orchestra and also teamed up with Tom’s shoes to help distribute gifts to the children.
James traveled to gorgeous Buenos Aires Argentina for his debut at the magnificent Teatro Colón as Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly in a new production by Hugo DeAnna. He made the most of his time by taking Tango lessons in La Boca, watching Polo in Palermo, shopping in Recoleta and enjoying nightlife in Puerto Madero. This also marked his debut in South America.
James portrays the tormented Don José from Bizet’s Carmen. This marks his début in this very important role.
The Alster in the center of beautiful Hamburg
Hamburg has more canals then Venice !
The public awaiting the performance
James on stage in Act 3 as Don José in Carmen
James Valenti was the star performer at this annual concert in Stonington CT. The Sergio Franchi Foundation was founded in memory of the legendary Tenor and gives grants and scholarships to young singers. James first performed here in 2001 and it remains one of his most favorite venues. It’s always a joyous day of celebrating music. James also finds time to go sailing and visit the historic Ocean House in nearby Rhode Island.
An audience of thousands enjoying the concert
With Eva Franchi, Giada Valenti and Filippo Voltaggio
Opera selfie, backstage with Latonia Moore, Sarah Joy Miller, Jesus Garcia, David Miller and Wes Mason
Sharing a laugh with Eva Franchi
James Valenti singing “Non ti scordar di me” on the jumbo screen
James sings “Con te partirò” with Maria Aleida
James was one of the star performers at the 9th Festival del Sole in the heart of wine country in Napa Valley, California. He delighted fans and performed along with stars like Joshua Bell. While there James visited many wineries and vineyards, attending various parties and even dined at the famous restaurant The French Laundry.
James performing in Yountville in Napa Valley.
Photo by Paul Richardson
James performing at Weill Hall in Sonoma modeled after Tanglewood
With Grammy Award-winning violinist and conductor Joshua Bell
At Keller Estate Winery including IMG Artists’ owner Barrett Wissman and friends
Napa Valley vista
Cruising around Napa
Achilles International is a non-profit organization that creates running programs and marathon opportunities to disabled veterans and offers them a strong community of support.
James performed there to help wounded soldiers.
James Valenti made his exciting debut at the Baden-Baden Festspielhaus in a thrilling concert of Verdi and Versimo repertoire alongside fellow opera star Anna Netrebko, with the Baden-Baden Philharmonic conducted by Pavel Baleff.
Baden-Baden is a vacation town in the German countryside known for its tranquil setting and natural healing baths.
Review from the Pforzheimer Zeitung Kritik – June 11 2014
“Ihr zur Seite der amerikanische Tenor James Valenti, dessen baritonal gefärbte, kräftige Stimme an Klangfülle mithalten konnte.”
“The baritonal sound of James Valenti’s strong voice was full of sonority and a perfect complement/addition to Anna Netrebko.”
© 2014 – Manolo Press
James Valenti recently traveled to the gorgeous city of Prague in the Czech Republic to record his first solo CD with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra led by renowned conductor Maestro Steven Mercurio. The album will be released by the end of this year and will be a collection of favorite Italian and French arias.
James Valenti attends the Merit School of Music Gala in Chicago to honor famous Opera star Renée Fleming.
With the beautiful and talented, Miss Illinois 2014 Marisa Buchheit
With Renée Fleming
While in Phoenix performing the Verdi Requiem, James appeared to speak of his career and serenades
with “Mamma” in honor of upcoming Mother’s Day.
James Valenti was recently honored with the Distinguished Alumnus Award from his alma mater West Virginia University College of Creative Arts. He traveled to campus to give a masterclass and speak to the students about a career in opera.
Being interviewed by College of Creative Arts Dean Paul Kreider
Receiving the Distinguished Alumnus Award
With Marilyn Horne and Renata Scotto
With James Morris, also a fellow graduate of The Academy of Vocal Arts
With Christa Ludwig
With Kristine Opolais, his colleague from the recent performances of “Madama Butterfly”
James Valenti was invited to the Ninth Annual Opera News Awards held at the Plaza Hotel in New York City honoring distinguished achievement and peerless artistry in the world of opera. James was surrounded by many legends that he grew up admiring, like Renata Scotto, Marilyn Horne, James Morris and Christa Ludwig and many of his contemporaries like Joyce Di Donato and Kristine Opolais.
James Valenti brings his signature suave Lt Pinkerton to the Met opposite fellow rising star Kristine Opolais. James began his career at The Met when he was a top winner in the 2002 National Council Auditions and continues a close relationship with this most Prestigious venue.
From the Wall Street Journal: Behind the scenes photos.
James Valenti sings the National Anthem before the Minnesota Timberwolves vs. New York Knicks game
at the Minneapolis Target Center on March 5, 2014.
“Valenti’s smoldering portrayal mesmerizes, and his chemistry with his female co-stars buoys the plot.”
Read the full review here: Twin Cities Daily Planet
James Valenti “handsome and charismatic” has a huge success portraying iconic film star Rudolph Valentino in Dominick Argento‘s “The Dream of Valentino“.
Dominick Argento’s revised ‘Valentino’ is a triumph for Minnesota Opera
“James Valenti, handsome and charismatic.”
“James Valenti’s Valentino, appropriately handsome and charismatic, displaying a rich-sounding, husky tenor, gives equal vent to the character’s insecurities and frustrations, suggesting that at some level the character knows he’ll never be as big or as interesting as his screen image. .”
See more of the Star Tribune glowing review !
James attended many events in New York City to celebrate the Super Bowl. It was a particularly special year as opera star colleague Renée Fleming performed the national anthem.
James at the Leigh Steinberg Super Bowl Party.
James with Nana Meriwether.
James with famed agent Leigh Steinberg and former Miss USA Nana Meriwether.
“The Catch” Super Game Day Party Experience.
A Night Divine at St. Patrick’s with James Valenti
The event was telecast Live on PIX 11
More info: operatoonity.com
More info: newjerseynewsroom.com
James Valenti headlined the inaugural “Opera at the Waterfront” free concert for the public presented by the Palm Beach Opera. “I live here in Palm Beach and I’ve had a close working relationship with this company for many years. I was delighted to be a part of this first time event and help PBO reach new audiences and make opera more accessible to the community. We had glorious weather and a huge turnout. It was a home-run for the company.” James also recently leant his talents for charity events for the March of Dimes and serenaded the ladies of Junior League Palm Beach at their annual Christmas Party.
James Valenti has been selected to perform at Christmas Eve Midnight Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC.
He will sing, “O Holy Night” during the Communion service and the event will be nationally telecast LIVE on PBS.
“I’m incredibly honored and excited for this opportunity,” says Valenti. “I was raised as a Roman Catholic in NJ and even attended Catholic School and was an altar boy for many years. To sing at the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral at the epicenter of Christmas Eve in NYC will be such a thrill for me and my family.”
More Info: St. Patrick’s Cathedral
James Valenti teamed up with friends and colleagues from his years at The Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia for a benefit concert to raise money for the Red Cross disaster relief aid following the Typhoon in the Philippines.
More info: Official Press Release
More info: www.broadwayworld.com
“Carlo, sung by tenor James Valenti, is just one of the production’s outstanding vocal talents.”
TODAY, SUNDAY NOV. 24th, LIVE FROM AUSTIN LYRIC OPERA, AT 2:50 P.M. CST
Don’t miss an exclusive live broadcast of Austin Lyric Opera‘s “Don Carlo” with Metropolitan Opera tenor James Valenti, on KMFA, Classically Austin 89.5 !
Statesman Preview: Don Carlo featuring James Valenti
Tenor James Valenti, who plays the opera’s title role, says that his character is a challenge.
“It’s a very politically charged plot,” Valenti says during a break from recent rehearsal. “But (Don Carlo) is unlucky. He wants to be strong, he wants to do the right thing, but he’s a victim of political circumstance, and he’s very tormented by that. He’s not a hero in the conventional sense.”
Valenti sang the role of Don Carlo (in the French version of the opera) at the Caramoor Festival in July to critical acclaim.
If Austin is new for the 36-year-old New Jersey native, the Lone Star State is not. He’s sung several times for the Dallas Opera, including the role of Alfredo in that company’s 2012 “La Traviata.”
Lyric Opera’s emotionally charged ‘Butterfly’ soars.
A formidable cast.
“Looking every bit a strapping naval officer and possessing a fluid, full-bodied tenor voice that could hardly be better suited to this opera, tenor James Valenti seemed completely at home in the role of Lt. B. F. Pinkerton. He made the most of the character’s soaring arias and managed to convey both the character’s blithe self-centeredness and authentic remorse at the end.”
See more of the Chicago Sun-Time glowing review !
See The Chicago Crusader article
See College of Creative Arts – West Virginia University article
Photo by William Bichara
Fame is a dangerous dance…
James Valenti will portray Italian silent film star/sex symbol Rudolph Valentino in a new opera about the actor’s life. A sultry young dancer is transformed from an unknown immigrant to a silent film sensation. Rudolph Valentino’s stardom blazed across the silver screen but was quickly consumed by the same forces that ignited it. Seduction and scandal swirl in this tango-tinged opera about an artist discovered and destroyed by Hollywood. It documents his meteoric rise to fame and inner turmoil to achieve his dreams. This highly anticipated opera, written by Pulitzer Prize winning composer Dominick Argento, will be presented by The Minnesota Opera in March 2014.
Don’t miss, “The Dream of Valentino“.
Tenor James Valenti and Soprano Anna Netrebko both attended Fashion Designer Zang Toi‘s show and the House Of Toi celebrity studded Opening Party.
Having dressed the likes of Sharon Stone, Gong Li, Eva Longoria, Fergie of the Black Eye Peas, Heather Graham, Devon Aoki, Farrah Fawcett, Patti LaBelle, Ivana Trump and Melinda Gates, Zang Toi is now considered an established name in the world of Haute Fashion. His timeless and uncompromising designs pamper women with elegance and glamour – inspired by his love of travel and fine living.
James Valenti and Ana Maria Martinez performed in the Chicago Lyric Opera concert Saturday night at Millennium Park.
“James Valenti, a sonorous and powerful Pinkerton (he will star in Lyric’s Butterfly in October), proved the evening’s most affecting highlight.”
A heartthrob, a diva, a beautiful night: Lyric at Pritzker
Tenor James Valenti, who sounds great and looks even better. (If there’s another tenor around with this, um, charisma, he’s not coming to mind.) Valenti will make his Lyric debut as Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly in mid-October, but not with Ana Maria Martinez, who was his bride for this night only. She’ll be opening the season as Desdemona in Otello, and will sing the title role in Rusalka, in February.
See Chicago Reader
Austin Lyric Opera (ALO) has announced that internationally acclaimed American tenor James Valenti will take on the title role of its season opener, “Don Carlo”.
“We could not be more pleased that James is stepping in to kick off our new season,” says General Director Joseph Specter. “His performance will add to the artistic excellence ALO strives for with every production, and his Hollywood good looks, powerful voice and stage presence will thrill Austin audiences.”
Both Specter and ALO Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Richard Buckley have worked and performed with Valenti before. “James is a world class artist in high demand!” says Buckley. “We are so fortunate that he has agreed to add this engagement to his already busy schedule. His voice and artistry are sublime, and I am excited that we will be able to present him in Austin.”
On December 14, 2013, Palm Beach Opera will present its first large-scale outdoor concert, “Opera @ The Waterfront” at the Meyer Amphitheatre.
The 90-minute program will feature soloists; a full chorus and orchestra; and a program of opera favorites, season highlights and show tunes. And if that’s not enticing enough, it’s also free.
Tenor James Valenti will headline the show. His international career includes performing opposite Angela Gheorghiu in La Traviata at the Metropolitan Opera and The Royal Opera in London. A resident of West Palm Beach, he’s also portrayed Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly twice and the Duke in Rigoletto at Palm Beach Opera.
See Palm Beach Opera Official Page See Palm Beach Daily News article
If you’re a fan of opera, you may be familiar with the many personas of James Valenti. James has played some of the most notorious characters to hit the stage, from lovesick leads like Goethe’s Werther to Puccini’s two-timing Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly.
But it was James’ role as Don Carlos that earned the tenor major spotlight recently. “It was very demanding,” he says. “You take on a new perspective about life after a role like that.”
In Verdi’s opera, Don Carlos suffers from a doomed love that leads to his imprisonment and eventual demise. It’s a classic story of want and despair – a theme James became better acquainted with when he visited impoverished slums in the Dominican Republic.
A sponsor since 2006, James was invited to visit Children International’s La Caleta sponsorship community after expressing a desire to promote the work of CI at his performances.
An adoring audience of sponsored children, youth and staff were waiting for him.
It wasn’t his notoriety as a professional opera singer that intrigued the kids, though. None had ever heard James’ arias, after all. Rather, it was his reputation as a sponsor – a real-life hero for kids – that excited them.
“This little girl came up to me and smiled and touched my arm,” James recalls. “She just wanted to hold my hand and be next to me. It was one of the most unexpected and sincere moments.” It was also the most memorable experience of his trip, he says.
New Jersey has had its share of famous singers. Frank Sinatra, Jon Bon Jovi, Whitney Houston, Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon, Sarah Vaughn to name a few.
Opera singers, too. Frederica von Stade, Barbara Bonney, Richard Crooks, Dorothy Kirstin, Paul Robeson (he did occasionally sing opera). And now…James Valenti, born in Summit, who will be singing the title role in “Don Carlos” at Caramoor this month. He’s already sung at the Met (“La Traviata”) as well as at La Scala, Covent Garden in London, Opera national de Paris, Deutsche Opera Berlin, and many other leading opera houses all over the world.
Valenti is only 35; he has a fine lyric-spinto voice (you can hear him in a variety of arias on YouTube); and he really knows his opera, rattling off the names of tenors he admires. (Especially Franco Corelli, but also Pavarotti, Gigli, Bergonzi, Mario del Monaco, and Giuseppe di Stefano.) He’s remarkably well-spoken, too. And modest and unpretentious: “In high school,” he confesses, “I decided to join the choir as a way to meet girls.” Gradually the music he listened to, growing up, went from Billy Joel to the Three Tenors: When he first saw them on TV, “I was awestruck.” He’s also quite courteous, thanking me graciously for urging him to listen to another tenor from New Jersey who sang at the Met, the great Richard Crooks.
No, Valenti is not your typical tenor: short and fat, à la Caruso, Gigli, Tagliavini, so forth. He’s 6 foot 5, slim, and good-looking — which, in the age of opera in HD, is a singular blessing for a singer who plays romantic leading-man roles.
See Newsroom Jersey