Valeria Stenkina
Valeria Stenkina is a distinguished Russian operatic soprano, recognized as a Meritorious Artist of Russia. Born in Samara, Russia, she completed her studies at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory in 1992. Her professional debut came in 1996 at the Mariinsky Theatre, where she performed the title role in Salome. Stenkina became a permanent member of the Mariinsky company in 1997, showcasing her versatility in roles such as Tatyana in "Eugene Onegin," Maria in "Mazeppa," Violetta in "La traviata," and Kundry in "Parsifal."
In 1998, she expanded her repertoire internationally, performing as Elizabeth in "Don Carlos" with the Estonian National Opera and taking on the title role in "Norma" with the Lithuanian National Opera. The following year, she reprised the title role in "Tosca" at the Saint Petersburg Philharmonia and the International Chaliapin Festival in Kazan. Her performances in 1999 also included roles in "Otello" and "Il trovatore" in Riga, conducted by Zurab Sotkilava, and a rendition of Richard Strauss's "Four Last Songs" with the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra under Uriel Segal.
Stenkina has recorded two CDs, one in 1992 with Sony Music Entertainment and another in 1994 with Melodiya. Her career, active since 1998, continues to contribute significantly to the opera world.
