Billy Kitts
My formal musical education began in Denver, CO at the Lamont School of Music (which is affiliated with the Denver Conservatory of Music), where I majored in Voice and Opera. After I arrived in New York with my parents in 1957, I completed my graduate study at the American Academy of Dramatic Art and the Julliard School of Music.
Privately, I have also studied with Professor Blanche DaCosta, Robert Lansing (Metropolitan Opera) and Robert Weede (Metropolitan Opera and Broadway Performer), as well as having been coached by Alice Wightman and Felix Popper (New York City Opera).
Jane Froman
I would be remiss if I did not also mention the personal mentors in my life, who included my parents, Billy Kitts (Organist/Pianist/Conductor) and my mother Emilie Harrigan (Dancer in Ballet, Ballroom, and Tap). Without them, I would not have had the opportunity to observe so many of the great performers up close at such an early age, and I would not have had my wonderful career in the theatre. Also extremely influential in my life was our family friend, the great Jane Froman, who shared her wisdom and experience with me throughout the years.
with
Beverly SillsNew York City Opera, 1974
Among my greatest achievements are my 28 years singing with New York City Opera and my appearance on Broadway in Milk and Honey, in which I spent a year on a national tour. I had the great privilege to do vocal work with the New York Philharmonic under Leonard Bernstein and continued with them for three years via the Schola Cantorum at Carnegie Hall, the United Nations, and a major recording session for RCA Victor. In addition to all of these, I have performed widely in concert and in leading musical theatre, operetta, and dramatic roles stretching from off-Broadway to off-off Broadway. Last, but not least, I have performed all over Manhattan and the tri-state area in solo cabaret for decades.
I am a member of the AEA and AGMA.
In a behind-the-scenes role that foreshadowed my role as a teacher, I also produced and directed with my own company in New Your City for over 10 years. I began my work as a vocal coach, teaching students in my Upper West Side studio, and it has been a great joy in my life ever since.