Danai Kalpaki is an opera singer who holds an Integrated Master’s Degree in Voice Performance from Ionian University in Corfu, and who graduated with honors. Throughout her academic journey, Danai actively participated in many concerts as a soloist and as a member of the Vocal Ensemble of Ionian University. Her first solo recital took place in Athens in February 2023, and a month later she portrayed the role of Laurentia in the operatic production The Beautiful Bridegroom by Dan Shore, presented by Ionian University. As a chorister, she contributed to operatic and church music performances. A notable highlight from her time as a chorister with the Vocal Ensemble of Ionian University includes the presentation of Renaissance choral works at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City in 2018. Additionally, Danai had the privilege of participating in the first fully staged revival of The Parliamentary Candidate, the first opera written in the Greek language by Spyridon Xyndas, a historic event that took place 150 years after its initial performance. Beyond her studies as an opera singer, Danai has been actively engaged in music education. During her studies, she pursued supervised teaching practice in piano and singing, and she attended many classes that deepened her knowledge of education and pedagogy. Since 2020, she has been teaching music to children.

The prospect of studying in the United States, and particularly at SUNY Fredonia, represents the most significant opportunity for the expansion of her academic pursuits, and a step towards attaining her goal of pursuing a career as a professional singer and pedagogue. Danai’s goal is not only to develop and refine her skills, but also to gain a profound understanding of North American voice pedagogy, equipping herself with the tools necessary to understand and apply efficient vocal training methods. As a Fulbright Fellow, Danai is eager to engage in cross-cultural exchange between Greece and the United States. She aspires to share her knowledge and experiences, and actively participate in Fulbright’s vibrant global network to make a positive impact on society.