DEAR FRIENDS,

For years I’ve enjoyed helping fellow performers and many wonderful companies with their Russian repertoire. On 24.02.2022 our world was turned upside down… As a Ukrainian, and in solidarity with all Ukrainian artists who have no theaters to perform in anymore, I am taking a hiatus from all my Russian language work at the moment.
Thank you for years of beautiful achievements and good fun, and thank you for your support and understanding during this difficult time.
Slava Ukraini!

“… But first I brought it to (soprano and Russian language coach) Natalya Gennadi [Matyusheva] in Toronto. We spoke through it, and she recorded the entire text twice on tape for me. She’s amazing.” - in interview with Ludwig van Toronto

Gordon Bintner, baritone, COC

"Having worked with diction coaches at some of the largest opera companies in North America, I can confidently say that Natalya is one of the finest diction coaches I have ever worked with. Her expertise was invaluable to me, and she is the only person I would go to for Russian coaching in the future.."

Andrew Haji, tenor

"A native speaker who trained and practiced as both linguist and singer, Natalya is uniquely qualified to provide instruction in this very specialized field. With her support, artists of the Canadian Opera Company Ensemble Studio were able to tackle important role debuts with confidence and success."

Nina Draganic (Director, COC Academy)

Natalya was our Russian diction coach for Eugene Onegin which I conducted in Ottawa. She was wonderfully supportive to those singers who had never before sung in Russian and the seasoned pros also appreciated her helpful hints. Natalya is knowledgeable, patient and fun. I am happy to highly recommend her.

Tyrone Paterson (Music Advisor and Principal Conductor, Manitoba Opera  Former Artistic Director, Opera Lyra Ottawa)