ALUMNI CORNER: ALISSA GORETSKY
November 25, 2024
This month, we’re catching up with Alissa Goretsky (’16), who sang in our Apprentice, Intermediate, and Concert Choirs over her eight years as a singer with LACC. After graduating, Alissa went on to study voice at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and pursued singing as a career. These days, Alissa is an award-winning singer, currently singing soprano as a studio artist with the Houston Grand Opera in Texas.
Do you have any memories of song in your early life?
I always loved singing and I knew that it was always going to be a big part of my life. There was never a bored moment because I always had my instrument/voice with me. My fond memories were always just singing around the piano at my home with my mom and sister.
How did you first get involved with LACC? What is a favorite memory, tour, or concert experience with LACC?
My mom brought me to audition for LACC before I really even knew what LACC was. I have lots of amazing memories with LACC from performing as part of galas at Dorothy Chandler to performing at the Hollywood Bowl with John Williams. I’d have to say that my favorite memory was our tour to Germany and England—it was amazing being there with my friend when Germany won the World Cup!
How did LACC help prepare you for your current career as an opera singer?
I am so lucky to be doing what I love everyday as a Butler Studio Young Artist with Houston Grand Opera. The musicianship classes and reading music helped me a lot with role preparation and LACC gave me a big head start with the phonetics of singing in other languages.
We already know the answer to this, but are you still singing?
I am and I’m so grateful it’s my full time job! I recently made my house and role debut with Houston Grand Opera as Clorinda in their production of La Cenerentola by Rossini under the baton of Lorenzo Passerini.
What Else Are You Up to Now?
Just enjoying life and loving music!
What advice do you have for current LACC choristers?
Enjoy every moment and every rehearsal! These are memories you will have forever!
What’s your favorite song?
“Sail Away!” Especially with the violin solos!
How has your experience as a performer prepared you for where you are now?
It has propelled me into what I wanted to do with life! Without Mrs. T and Concert Choir I don’t think I would have found myself on a path that allowed me to follow my heart into a musical career.
What does LACC mean to you?
LACC is the beginning of my journey as a musician and is my choral home!