Studio Artist Sponsors
82 | FLORIDA GRAND OPERA
season
Samuel M. Townsend, or “Sam,” has been an opera lover for decades, and has
volunteered and provided generous support to Florida Grand Opera. He has
underwritten the life-care expenses for the members of the Studio for over 20 years.
He graduated from Hartford City High School, Indiana. He received a Bachelor of
Science degree from Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana and a master’s degree
from the University of Kentucky in Lexington. Sam had a career as a microbiologist
for 45 years with the Miami VA Healthcare System in Miami, retiring in 1989. He
has always been a lover of music. At school, he played the clarinet. In Miami,
chorus, then working in the wardrobe department. Before acquiring his wardrobe
status, he served a two-year apprenticeship and became a member of the
International Alliance of Stage and Moving Pictures of the U.S. and Canada (now
IATSE). Consequently, he has worked backstage for opera and shows including 86
performances of Phantom of the Opera, The Nutcracker, Starlight Express, Cats,
City of Angels, The Secret Garden, and Alvin Ailey, to name just a few.
Sam now enjoys retired life at John Knox Village in Pompano Beach, Florida. However, he is as busy as ever with involvement on the activities,
Opera and attends most dress rehearsals as well!
Sam brings the Studio Artists of FGO to the Village each year for a delightful opera experience enjoyed by all the residents. The audience packs
the auditorium as these artists and their accompanists present such memorable music. He is looking forward to the performances planned for
this season!
Sam Townsend is sponsoring the Studio Artist Auxiliary Life-Cost Fund.
Additional Studio Artist Sponsors
$15,000+
R. Angel and Alba González is sponsoring Studio Artist Stephany Peña.
The Estate of Curtis and Grace Panvini Rice is sponsoring Coach/Pianist Jared Peroune.
The Dianne and Michael Bienes Charitable Foundation, Inc.
$1,000–$2,999 Studio Artist Contributor
Junior Opera Guild
$250–$999 Studio Program Supporter
Manuel Marcelo Gonzalez
Ms. Beth Folic, in memory of my parents Joann and Jacov Folic
Studio Artist Corporate Sponsor
Dr. Richard Vivero at South Florida ENT Associates, PA