Meet the AMA Team

Anna Patalong, an award-winning British soprano of Polish and Irish heritage, has earned critical acclaim across Europe for her "powerful and dark-hued soprano" (Opera Magazine). A recipient of numerous accolades, including the Francisco Vinas Competition and the Maggie Teyte Award, Anna’s career highlights include title roles in Miss Julie (BBC Symphony Orchestra) and Manon Lescaut, along with celebrated performances in La Traviata, Proserpine, and Pagliacci. She has graced prestigious stages such as the Royal Opera House, Opera de Paris, and Scottish Opera, with additional accolades in concert and recital at venues like Wigmore Hall and the Royal Albert Hall. With a passion for fostering the next generation of talent, Anna is now the CEO of British Youth Opera, the nation’s premier opera training company.

International mezzo-soprano Maria Jagusz of Polish and Irish heritage, grew up in Manchester, where her early passion for music and dance led to professional training at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM). She has performed with leading opera companies, including the Royal Opera House Covent Garden, English National Opera, and Glyndebourne Festival Opera, and internationally with Opera de Lyon, Lisbon Opera, and the Royal Danish Opera House. Her repertoire spans major roles like Carmen, Cherubino (Marriage of Figaro), and Madam Armfeldt (A Little Night Music). A versatile artist, Maria excels in both opera and concert settings, working with luminaries such as José Carreras and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa. Dedicated to nurturing young talent, she is the Artistic Director of MJ.UK, staging musicals, operas, and concerts while supporting local charities. Maria’s contribution to music has been recognized with her appointment as honorary chairman of the Silurian Consort.