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Email to a friendLaura Aikin, BFA ’86, is considered to be a leader among today’s sopranos, gracing the world’s opera and concert stages—including the Metropolitan Opera, the Vienna State Opera, and La Scala Milan—with her three-octave voice and arresting stage presence.
“It was clear right away what makes Laura Aikin world class. Though she is known for her high coloratura, her voice has an uncommon depth. One of the great voices to come out of Buffalo.”
Her journey began when she heard her first opera as a music student at the University at Buffalo. She joined the UB Opera Workshop where she learned much about her chosen art form. This provided the foundation that helped guide her to the heights of her profession, reaching audiences around the world with the beauty of her singing.
“As the first in my family to move out of Western New York, I found the transition very difficult. No footsteps to follow, no idea how to pursue a career in music, no role model,” she recalled. “But in the end, it certainly worked to my advantage. Since I had no preconceived idea to fulfill, I was free to explore my options and follow the path my voice and my ambitions laid out for me.”
Aikin extends her gift to help others, particularly in her hometown and at her alma mater, which she visits often. She performed at the dedicatory concert for UB’s Robert G. and Carol L. Morris Center for 21st Century Music in October 2007. She has also given master classes for UB voice students and area high school choral students.
Fluent in German and Italian, she emphasizes the importance of knowing other languages deeply to mirror the composer’s intention.
“I appreciate now more than ever the genius of the composers whose works I perform, and the dedication and passion of the musicians with whom I am honored to work,” she said. “I also find myself often looking out into the audience and wishing I could thank each of them for making the performance possible.”
DISCOVER MORE
“Celebrated opera singer stays anchored to her home and family”
UB alumni profile of Laura Aikin.
“Aikin’s stage presence matches her voice”
Concert review of Aikin’s debut with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.
“A Mother’s Song”
Personal and artistic reminiscence by Aikin.
