Jeanne based on the story of Jean of Arc by New York-based Justine F. Chen was featured at the New York City Opera VOX 2008 competition. Justine is the recipient of many prestigious awards and commissions. Her works have been commissioned and performed by The Juilliard School, New York City Opera, New York Choreographic Institute and the Washington Ballet.

Sought-after composer Robert Chumbley studied under Leonard Bernstein and is a prize-winning pianist. His work in progress Hidden Jewel is his second opera; Ordinary People was his first operatic work; Robert has written orchestral works commissioned and performed by (among others) the North Carolina and Omaha Symphonies and is former director of Atlanta Ballet and Cleveland Opera.

Tina Davidson’s work The Pearl, based on the novel by Mary Gordon, will be performed. Tina creates music that stands out for its emotional depth and lyrical dignity. She has been acclaimed for her authentic voice, her “vivid ear for harmony and colors” (New York Times) and her works of “transfigured beauty” (Opera News).