Whether preparing hundreds of pages of music for a new production, performing opera in multiple languages, or mentoring aspiring musicians, Isabel Liana (Randall), MM ’21 approaches every opportunity as both an artist and a lifelong learner. Since earning a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from Azusa Pacific University, Liana has continued to expand her career while remaining grounded in the faith that first led her to APU.
Liana’s interest in opera began after watching the Hey Arnold! episode called “What’s Opera, Arnold?”, but it was in high school where she was first encouraged to pursue a career in music. “My teacher, Ms. Hinkle, told me I could do something with my voice,” said Liana. “She really believed that I could make something out of my talent.” Liana knew she wanted to help people in whatever career path she ended up taking. At first, she wasn’t sure how she could do that with music until she went on a mission trip to Malaysia in 2018. “Seeing how music healed, empowered, and changed people made me want to turn my interest in music into a career,” said Liana.
After graduating from Baylor University in 2019, Liana decided to continue her musical education at a Christian institution. In her search for the right graduate program, Liana discovered a connection between Baylor and APU through one of her professors, who had graduated from APU. “I looked at the faculty members in APU’s music department, and realized that many of them were working professionals,” said Liana. “Many of them had connections to the LA Opera or LA Master Chorale.” A major factor in Liana’s decision to attend APU was that the faculty had high-level experience performing and could give her real-world guidance. “It just so happened that when I visited my parents in California, their hotel was only four miles away from APU,” said Liana. “I toured APU, met the faculty, and envisioned myself studying here.”
Shortly after Liana began attending APU, the campus was shut down due to the COVID-19
pandemic. Although much of Liana’s program took place during the pandemic, APU emphasized
professional development, language study, score analysis, masterclasses, and performance
preparation over Zoom.
“When I continued my studies in Boston, they were really impressed with how much I
had learned and developed throughout my program at APU.” Encouraged by her mentor,
Michael Geiger, MFA, professor emeritus, Liana constantly sought to improve. “Professor
Geiger told me, ‘You’re good right now, but I know you have the potential to be great.’”
That challenge became a turning point for Liana, motivating her to pursue excellence
long after leaving the classroom.
Since graduating from APU, Liana has performed with several opera companies, with each experience strengthening her art. “Playing Mercedes in Carmen was my favorite role,” said Liana. “For the first time, I realized that this is not only hard work, but a rewarding opportunity.” This role required Liana to sing in French while acting, dancing, and bringing the character to life on stage. Besides opera, Liana is well-versed in acting and poetry. “Those skills have really helped me understand the depth of the work and embrace the vulnerability,” said Liana.
Throughout her career, Liana learned that success in opera goes beyond talent. Working with various opera companies taught her the importance of preparation and time management. “Learning how to best use my off time has been the biggest lesson I’ve learned,” said Liana. “Properly utilizing off time to prepare is the difference between getting a role or not.” Liana shared that the uncertainty is the hardest part of a career in music. “The biggest challenge is the waiting game,” said Liana. Instead of allowing uncertainty to discourage her, Liana relies on her faith to remain patient and trust God’s timing.
As Liana looks toward the future, she hopes to make her European debut or perform within a major American opera company within the next few years. For students considering music careers, Liana encourages them to invest time in researching schools. “You need to do your homework,” said Liana. “Connect with the school’s faculty and alumni. Chances are, they would love to show you the ropes.” Just as mentors helped shape her own journey, Liana hopes to encourage and support the next generation of musicians by sharing her experiences and answering questions about pursuing a career in music.
To learn more about Liana and connect with her, visit her website.