Lyric Tenor, Brenden Christie, is rapidly establishing himself as a rising star in Opera and upon the theatrical stage. He has been chosen by audition and named one of the twenty-four Resident Artists of the prestigious Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia. His full four year scholarship will begin in September of this year. His experiences have been building rapidly since beginning his vocal studies in January of 2022. He recently made his professional Oratorio debut in Mendelssohn's "Elijah" with the Charlottesville Symphony and Oratorio Society in May. Last summer, after being awarded a full scholarship by the Kingsport Music Club, he studied at the International Lyric Academy in Vicenza, Italy where he was featured in two leading roles in Strauss' "Die Fledermaus" and Adamo's "Little Women”. During the prior summer of 2024, Brenden was lead tenor in three productions with the College Light Opera Company in Falmouth, Massachusetts. In addition to numerous solo and joint recitals, Brenden's many stage appearances have included Frederick in "The Pirates of Penzance", the Baker in "Into the Woods", among others with the Jonesboro Repertory Theater and Milligan University. His studies have been with the Masters Voice Studio under Mark Owen Davis in Bristol, VA. Hailed as having a radiant voice of exceptional range and beauty, combined with a charismatic stage presence, Brenden Christie is poised to extend his studies and performances toward the professional stage, both nationally and internationally.