Rogelio Riojas Nolasco: Weaver of Opera Dreams

Published June 19, 2024

By Natalie Taylor

San Miguel de Allende has long been known for its wonderful classical musical culture, going as far back as the 19th century. On May 11, 1873 Mexico’s premier soprano, Angela Peralta sang for the opening of Rigoletto, at a newly constructed theater in town. The building on Mesones 82, chose to use her name and it has been serving the community as Teatro Angela Peralta, ever since. In 1978, Carmen Masip founded the Chamber Music Festival in San Miguel de Allende, which has brought some of the best international musicians for the past four decades.

Then in 2019 the San Miguel MetOpera Trust began its annual auditions for the best young Mexican opera singers, whom they help achieve international standing. The Bel Canto Institute is another San Miguel de Allende venue that offers an annual competition for the best young singers, and promotes their careers with excellent coaching.

These are examples of the classical music scene here, and now there is another—Operisima Mexico, based in San Miguel de Allende. Founded in 2023 by Maestro Rogelio Riojas Nolasco, this is a year round studio dedicated to developing classical singing talents, and providing them with the skills needed for a successful career in the world of opera.

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