Michael Lepore Obituary

Sharon, Nephews & Nieces: I grieve with you for such a loss. Just to let you know how much influence Maestro Lepore had on me and my musical life. I seem to remember more the human side of him...I was a young college student when I joined the chorus in 1972. I remember the rehearsals as being invigorating and worthwhile. I was never afraid to perform any of the operas as I knew the music well(I still know all of it today!). My favorite memory is that once Maestro knew that I spoke French, he consulted with me frequently whilst learning any French operas. He even got me a small role in one of the operas as none of the artist-in-training guys had French that could satisfy the French director. I am always grateful for the disipline and methods which I learned from Maestro. I am certain he is directing the Opera du ciel as we speak. God bless you all.

I had the joy of working with Maestro Lepore for only two years, but he was responsible for the direction my entire musical life has taken. Even now, thirty years later, I hear his voice drilling every opera chorus he taught me. He gave me respect for my career choice, and made me understand the search for perfection. He was a man of great warmth and absolute integrity; people who worked with him left richer in humanity.

In 1958, I worked with Maestro Lepore for a very brief time, but I still remember how much I admired his work ethic and great musicianship.

Our beloved chorus master. You opened the gates to our love of the opera world. Your intense application to doing it the right way came with never going on the stage without a total confidence of being sure of the work to be done. You, no doubt, enter the after life with being greeted as one who is ready for it. We will never think of music, opera or the opera theatre without thinking of our beloved chorus master Michael Lepore.

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.