A Shared Passion
From left: Nicholas Tsimaras and Peter G. Courlas
"Music, and particularly opera, are magical for me! I can sit transfixed and my spirit soars." —Dr. Peter G. Courlas
From the earliest days of his childhood, Peter G. Courlas was surrounded by music. His family emigrated from a small village in Greece near Sparta, and brought with them opera recordings including those of Enrico Caruso. They encouraged his interest in singing in his high school and church choirs, and with the May Festival chorus.
It was Peter's sister, Helen Fischer, who first took him to the zoo and introduced him to the grand musical passion of his life—opera. The informality of the zoo's outdoor venue presented a unique experience for Cincinnati audiences, as elephants and peacocks frequently "accompanied" international opera stars.
Little did Peter know that he was hearing some of the same world-class performers as his future spouse, Nicholas Tsimaras, heard at the Metropolitan Opera, growing up in New York City—singers such as Beverly Sills and Risë Stevens. Peter was starstruck visiting these great artists in their "shack dressing rooms" in the back of the zoo's opera pavilion.
For many years, Peter and Nick shared their joint love of music, particularly opera. Cincinnati has incredible music performed by a variety of groups year-round, but Peter wanted to enjoy opera beyond its summer season. Peter's friend and fellow Greek, the Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director Evans Mirageas, was very excited to work with Peter to create this operatic oasis for our community. "A recital series has been a dream of mine from my first season 14 years ago. To know that my dear friend Peter has made this a reality is a joy."
Peter has shared his love for music and opera with many throughout the years—family, friends and his late spouse, Nicholas Tsimaras. Now, by joining the Society of Angels and creating the Peter G. Courlas and Nicholas Tsimaras Annual Recital Fund, he will share this love with the Cincinnati community in perpetuity. Help us celebrate this wonderful gift at the inaugural recital, October 29, 2019, featuring Tenor Stephen Costello for an evening of bel canto opera arias in concert.
To learn more about the many ways you can ensure your passion for the Cincinnati Opera continues through a planned gift, please visit our website or contact Raye Needham Allen at 513-768-5527 or rallen@cincinnatiopera.org.