Lora Bashmakian is an Armenian-American soprano from Los Angeles, California. She is a graduate student at the Eastman School of Music, where she studies under Kiera Duffy. At Eastman, Lora was a soprano soloist in Bach’s Cantata BWV 89, Mendelssohn’s: Lobgesang, and covered Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis with Eastman Philharmonia and Eastman-Rochester Chorus. Additionally, she has sung Nanetta from Falstaff in Eastman Opera Theatre’s scenes, and has been selected to perform in a masterclass led by Nicole Cabell.
Lora has spent time as a voice and piano instructor for students of all ages and in all styles. Additionally, she has worked as a choir director, and as musical director on several shows. After receiving her Master in Music, Lora intends to continue her education and obtain a Doctor in Musical Arts.
Lora is a two time Encouragement Award Winner from The Metropolitan Opera’s Laffont Competition. She has also worked professionally with Lyric Opera of Orange County singing the Flower Duet in concert, and with the Ted Atkatz Percussion Seminar, performing in Music for 18 Musicians by Steve Reich.
Lora graduated from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at California State University, Long Beach, where she received her degrees in BM Vocal Performance, and BM Choral/Vocal Education. In 2023 she was named the BCCM Concerto Competition winner, and performed Concerto for Coloratura Soprano with the Bob Cole Symphony Orchestra. During her summers, she has studied at programs such as SongFest, and Romantic Lied in Germany.