Resolution 200274

..Title Recognizing, honoring, and congratulating the Academy of Vocal Arts on the occasion of its 85th Anniversary: 1934-2020. ..Body WHEREAS, The Academy of Vocal Arts (AVA) was founded in 1934 by Helen Corning Warden, with the mission to be the world's premier institution for training young artists as international opera soloists; and WHEREAS, Since its founding, AVA has been dedicated exclusively to the study of voice, providing four years of tuition-free training to some of the most gifted vocal artists from around world; and WHEREAS, The unyielding commitment to excellence in the vocal arts programs has allowed AVA to become a world renowned post-graduate opera training school. No other opera training rivals AVA's success in developing individual artists whose extraordinary voices inspire millions on international stages. AVA alumni have received six Richard Tucker Awards and five Beverly Sills Artist Awards presented by The Metropolitan Opera; and WHEREAS, The building that houses the Academy of Vocal Arts, located at 1920 Spruce Street in the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, is both historical and architectural gem of Philadelphia; and WHEREAS, In celebration of its historic 85th Anniversary, AVA will present BrAVA Philadelphia!, a spectacular concert of opera stars at "The Met Philadelphia," the beautifully restored opera house on North Broad Street on March 28, 2020. This will be the first time in over 80 years that opera will return to The Met's stage featuring AVA alumni and Resident Artists alongside international opera stars; and WHREAS, The City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to recognize the Academy of Vocal Arts for its academic excellence, exemplary leadership, and its vital contributions to advancing the City as a destination for the arts, and further enhancing the City's culture, economy and the overall quality of life; now, therefore, be it BE IT RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That this body hereby recognizes, honors and congratulates the Academy of Vocal Arts on the occasion of its 85th Anniversary: 1934-2020. FUTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Academy of Vocal Arts, for it leadership further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body ..End