Originally from Guatemala, Fernando Menéndez began his musical journey studying voice with Dr. Angélica Rosa Sepúlveda, a Juilliard-trained soprano, who introduced him to the world of opera. After moving to Boise, he continued his vocal studies with Jason and Michele Detwiler. It was Michele's encouragement that led him to audition and joining Opera Idaho chorus in our production of Faust (2009). He has since continued to refine his craft off and on with the help of other talented local artists. He has also taken on small singing and non-singing roles in South Pacific (2010), The Ballad of Baby Doe (2012), Gianni Schicchi (2014), A Streetcar Named Desire (2018), Manon (2019), and Dead Man Walking (2022).

Fernando joined Opera Idaho’s staff in 2011 as an Administrative Assistant, learning the inner workings of the company. His extensive background in graphic design and marketing—developed during 12 years with a design firm in Guatemala—propelled his promotion to Marketing & Education Manager in 2013. By 2019, his role expanded to include his current titles: Marketing Director, Education Manager, and IT Administrator. In addition to his work with Opera Idaho, he was an early member of the Boise Gay Men’s Chorus, actively contributing for many years before stepping away during the pandemic.

Now residing in Garden City, Fernando continues to advance Opera Idaho's mission, blending his artistic passion and technical expertise to enrich Boise’s vibrant arts community.