Jelena Stefanic is a world-class Croatian soprano whose powerful voice and commanding stage presence have captivated audiences across Europe, Asia, and America. From her beginnings in Varaždin to her acclaimed performances at prestigious international venues, she has become one of the most inspiring figures in today’s classical music scene.
A Journey Rooted in Passion and Precision
Born and raised in Varaždin, Croatia, Jelena Štefanić began her musical education in her hometown before pursuing advanced vocal and opera studies at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna. Under the mentorship of renowned instructors Gabriele Lechner, Paul Esterhazy, and conductor Christoph Ulrich Meier, she honed her craft and developed the artistry that would soon take her to some of the most celebrated stages around the world.
Performing Across Continents
Jelena’s international career has seen her perform in some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses and festivals. Her performances have taken her to Teatro Greco in Taormina, the OperaMaya Festival in Mexico, State Operas in Bulgaria, Volksoper Vienna, Schlosstheater Schönbrunn Vienna, and her remarkable 2023 debut at Carnegie Hall in New York a milestone achievement in her global journey.
Her ability to connect with audiences across languages and cultures has made her a true ambassador of opera. From Europe and Asia to the Americas, she has performed in countries including China, Japan, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, and the UK, each time earning admiration for her vocal precision and emotional depth.
Acclaimed Roles and Artistic Excellence
In Croatia, Jelena Štefanić has graced the stages of national theatres in Varaždin, Osijek, and Pula, performing some of opera’s most demanding and iconic roles. Her repertoire includes Violetta in La Traviata, Leonora in Il Trovatore, Elettra in Idomeneo, Donna Anna, Vitellia, Konstanze in Die Entführung aus dem Serail, and Rosalinde in Die Fledermaus.
Each performance reflects her deep understanding of character and emotion, seamlessly blending technical mastery with artistic authenticity a balance that has become the hallmark of her career.
A Celebrated Concert Performer
Beyond opera, Jelena has built an impressive career as a concert soloist, performing at world-renowned venues such as Musikverein Graz, Musikverein Wien, NCPA Beijing, Hangzhou Grand Theatre, Suzhou Grand Theatre, Ningbo Grand Theatre, Opera Kensington in London, and the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Her ability to bring warmth, power, and elegance to every performance has earned her international acclaim, reinforcing her reputation as one of Croatia’s most versatile and talented sopranos.
Original Projects and Cultural Impact
In addition to her classical performances, Jelena is also the creative force behind unique musical projects such as Croatian Jewels and Around the World in Nine Songs. Both projects, supported by the Croatian Ministry of Culture and Media, were broadcast internationally on TV Classique (France) and Sparrow Live (USA), highlighting her commitment to sharing Croatian culture and heritage with global audiences.
Her innovative approach to music bridges tradition and modernity, reflecting her belief that classical art can continue to evolve while staying true to its roots.
A Trailblazer in Opera
In 2012, Jelena made history as the first and only Croatian soprano ever invited to participate in Plácido Domingo’s Operalia competition, one of the world’s most prestigious platforms for emerging opera talent. Since then, she has continued to inspire younger generations of performers through her artistry, mentorship, and vision for the future of opera.
Since 2016, she has also been part of the groundbreaking project Concert in the Dark, which reimagines the concert experience through sound and emotion rather than sight challenging audiences to connect with music on a deeper, more sensory level.
Recording and Artistic Direction
Jelena’s passion for music extends into recording and artistic leadership. Her acclaimed album “Dva Glasa” (Two Voices), released in 2016 by AULOS, showcases her collaboration with celebrated mezzo-soprano Ruža Pospiš Baldani. The project stands as a testament to her versatility and dedication to preserving Croatian musical excellence.
Beyond the stage, Jelena serves as the Casting and Artistic Director of the Noctes Aquae Iasae Classical Music Festival in Croatia, where she continues to nurture talent and shape the country’s classical music landscape.
A Voice That Transcends Borders
From Vienna to New York, Beijing to Varaždin, Jelena Štefanić has built a career defined by artistry, elegance, and resilience. Her journey is more than a story of musical success, it’s a reflection of dedication, discipline, and the belief that great music has no borders. As she continues to perform, direct, and inspire, Jelena remains a shining example of how one artist’s passion can connect the world through the universal language of music.
