Meet theTeam
With a strong belief in transparency and self-reliance in the arts, we offer access to essential information to bridge the knowledge gaps that currently exist. We enact all of our goals from a foundation of deep respect and an abiding love for the artforms within which we work. This comes from our unique perspective of having been artists ourselves as well as entrepreneurs, managers and administrators.
David Blackburn
PRESIDENT & FOUNDER
David Blackburn is one of the world’s premiere talent scouts and consultants for discovering operatic talent and making connections worldwide in all facets of the opera industry. With contacts at top international opera houses, festivals, agencies and other presenting organizations, and almost two decades of high-level international presence, few people in the opera business have a wider reach to connect the opera world and to help emerging artists with their careers.
Olga Ahn
Producer
Olga Ahn received her Master’s degree in Music of Theory and History at one of the world leading music schools – Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory. From 2011 to 2013 she worked as a project manager at the Artistic Department of Moscow Conservatory. Trained as a violinist she had managed Moscow International David Oistrakh competition from 2010 to 2013. At the beginning of 2014 she joined the NYIOP team as a producer and talent scout. For the past 5 years Ms. Ahn has worked in United States, Russia, Belgium, Thailand, Italy, South Korea, Romania and other countries.
Eric Margiore
US Chief Consultant
New York native and Lincoln Center based, Eric Margiore, prides himself on a deep knowledge and understanding of the full throated vocal technique and style of the Golden Age Italian School, as well as a thorough comprehension and intense appreciation of the great singers of that same era. That understanding and passion for opera singing and classical music, inspires Eric's interest and talent in the developmental & entrepreneurial components of the business of music and artists.
Kieanna M.
Brand Manager
Kieanna M. is an aspiring opera singer, Art Director, Consultant, and Brand Therapist, Kieanna is keenly aware that blending business with artistry is an absolute must for creatives! Her passion lies in creating experiences in everything arts, entertainment, and media.
Since starting out as a freelance creative in 2008, Kieanna has spent over 12 years curating, cultivating and creating brand experiences under her Digital Agency Aviena Sky.
Giordana
Social Media Specialist
Giordana is a dancer and performer, art manager, marketing specialist, and a writer contributor for two online art journals. Born in Perugia (Italy), she studied in Copenhagen (Denmark) and later moved to London, where she completed a bachelor's degree in Contemporary Dance at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance with First Class Honors. She performed original works by Heidi Rustgaard, Rahel Vonmoos, and Zoi Dimitriou among others. Over the years, she developed an interest in participating in the "behind the scene" work involved in putting on a performance.