Leah Yackanech

Database & Development Intern

Leah Yackanech is a dramatic coloratura soprano and voice teacher based in the Baltimore–Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Rooted in tradition, inspired by artistry, and devoted to bringing stories to life through the expressive power of the human voice, Leah is currently pursuing a Master of Music in Voice Performance and Pedagogy at the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University. She previously earned her Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM).

An emerging artist recognized for her musical sensitivity, versatility, and commitment to authentic storytelling, Leah has performed in opera, chamber music, sacred music, and vocal competitions throughout the United States and internationally. Her operatic credits include the role of the Third Lady in Mozart’s The Magic Flute with Metauro Opera in Columbus, Ohio. She has participated in distinguished programs including the Music by Women Festival, Cincinnati Chamber Music Intensive, Winter Music On Site Intensive, Chorworks Young Artist Program, Kennedy Center Young Associates Program, Washington National Opera Summer Opera Institute, Belcanto Bootcamp, and CCM Opera d’Arte.

Deeply connected to the spiritual and communal dimensions of music, Leah has cultivated a passion for sacred repertoire and liturgical singing. She served as a soprano choral scholar at Christ Church Glendale, where she developed extensive experience in sacred choral literature, ensemble performance, and collaborative music-making. Her interests extend to Orthodox sacred traditions, including Byzantine chant, and she is committed to exploring the rich historical and spiritual heritage of sacred vocal expression.

Leah is a Second Prize recipient of the International Schubert Competition Vienna and a First Prize recipient of the King’s Peak International Music Competition. She was also a Semi-Finalist in the American International Czech and Slovak Competition and has received recognition through NATS, CS Music, Schmidt Vocal Arts, and American Music Talent competitions.
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Alongside her performing career, Leah is passionate about cultivating the next generation of singers. She serves on the voice faculty at Harmonia School of Music and maintains a private studio, where she guides students in developing healthy, expressive, and confident voices. Drawing upon her background in performance, pedagogy, and voice science, Leah approaches teaching as a collaborative process that nurtures technical excellence, artistic individuality, and a lifelong love of singing.