MARIANNE PRUIKSMA currently the Managing Artistic Director of The Italian Operatic Experience while teaching voice privately in NJ and NYC. Ms. Pruiksma has been the recipient of The YWCA Studio Club Competition winning the prize of her NY debut. As a dramatic coloratura soprano, Ms. Pruiksma enjoyed a performing career as a concert and opera specialist both in the U.S. and abroad with more than 15 roles to her credit.

It was a visit with Beverly Sills that gave entré for Ms. Pruiksma to study Voice in NYC under the tutelage of Marlena Kleinman Malas, opening the doors to study at Mannes College of Music. While a student at The Mannes College of Music, Ms. Pruiksma was chosen to perform in the prestigious Master classes of Elizabeth Schwarzkopf. Mme. Schwarzkopf impressed with the young Soprano’s potential and vocal ability for the German opera repertoire, invited Ms. Pruiksma to study in Switzerland. This led to opera management and engagements throughout Europe.

Ms. Pruiksma has with worked some of the worlds most renown teachers and coaches; Elizabeth Schwarzkopf, Switzerland, Marlena Kleinman Malas, NYC, Margaret Hoswell, NYC, Rita Loving, Munich, Germany, Joan Dornemann of The Metropolitan Opera, and most recently in NYC with Gary Ledet. She has also performed with The Chautauqua Opera, Goldolvsky Opera, Des Moines Metro Opera and at the 92nd Street Y Chamber Music. Ms. Pruiksma has collaborated with distinguished Conductors and Directors from the Houston Opera, New York City Opera and The Metropolitan Opera. Upcoming engagements include concerts in Italy and New York City.