Happy news: Pianist raises tenor from despair to major stage

Two years ago, the international pianist Gabriela Montero took it upon herself to help a young tenor who lived in fear for his life in the state of chaos that goes by the name Venezuela.

Gabi and her husband Sam McElroy took Luis Magallanes to their home in Dublin and secured him tuition and auditions. Placido Domingo and Tara Eraught willingly lent support.

This weekend, Zurich Opera accepted Luis Magallanes into its studio, where he will work with the world’s leading artists and appear in main-stage productions.

Gabi says: ‘The success and happiness of Luis and his girlfriend, Dayana, should be a reason for pride and joy for all Venezuelans. They symbolize the best of our Venezuela and that’s why it is worth helping and loving them along this difficult path that is life.’