Avon HS Vocalist Garners Major Bushnell Honor

HARTFORD/AVON, CT — Twelve young artists have been selected for the Ensign-Darling New Voices Fellowship at The Bushnell in Hartford, including one student from Avon.

This talent development program provides vocal coaching and voice lessons, monthly masterclasses and mentorship opportunities with industry professionals for the young artists.

The program will culminate with two concerts at The Bushnell, a Holiday Concert on Saturday, Jan. 14, at 6 pm and a Spring Concert on Saturday, May 6, at 6 p.m. The Bushnell is at 166 Capitol Ave., Hartford.

One of the 12 chosen is Lillian Peng, a junior from Avon High School who said she is excited to be joining this year’s Ensign Darling Vocal Fellowship.

A member of her school’s improv club, theater department, orchestra, honors choir and a capella group, she said she loves to share music with the world.

Additionally, she is a co-vice president of the Music Service Society and the Avon Board of Education Liaison for her junior class.

She studies classical voice and was most recently awarded first place at the Hartt School of Music Honors Competition (Vocal Department).

The returning artistic director, Ariana Valdes, is an alumna of the first program formerly known as the Ensign Darling Vocal Fellowship.

She is a performer with more than 15 years of professional experience performing both nationally and internationally in touring Broadway and regional productions.

The Ensign-Darling is made possible by a gift from former Bushnell Trustee Robert E. Darling, Jr., which will provide 25 years of funding, from 2002 through 2027.

Darling, a lifelong singer himself, envisioned this program to provide young vocalists with exceptional natural talent the training and exposure to which they may not otherwise have access.

About 99 percent of all fellows have pursued college degrees and those who have continued to study music and performance have gone on to have success in the performing arts, including on Broadway and in touring productions.

Learn more at bushnell.org/ednv.