Ben Longo (M.Mu. ’26) Heads to Seagle Music Colony as Emerging Artist

Can you tell us a little about yourself and what brought you to Georgia State?
I grew up in St. Louis and later moved to Nashville. I actually started college at Tulane, studying pre-med and public health, but everything shifted once I began voice lessons and was introduced to opera. Through that experience, I connected with Professor Kathryn Hartgrove, and after working with her in Italy, Georgia State felt like the right place to continue growing.

What drew you fully into music after starting on a different path?
Music had always been part of my life - family, choir, musical theater - but it wasn't my focus at first. Once I began studying classical voice more seriously, something clicked. I realized this was what I wanted to pursue, and I haven't looked back since.

What has made the biggest impact on your development at GSU?
Working with Professor Hartgrove has been the most transformative part of my time here. She's helped shape me not just as a singer, but as a performer and professional. Her mentorship has given me both the technical foundation and the real-world perspective I need to succeed.

What's a moment or milestone you're especially proud of?
My master's recital represents everything I've worked toward during my time here. The repertoire is challenging, and it reflects the growth I've made both vocally and artistically.

How have you managed the demands of graduate study in music?
Planning has been everything. Scheduling practice, coursework, rehearsals - and just as importantly, rest - has helped me stay balanced. Without that structure, it's easy to burn out.

How have you connected with the musical community beyond the classroom?
I've had the opportunity to perform with the Harrower Summer Opera Workshop and I'm currently in my second season with the Atlanta Opera Chorus. Those experiences have been invaluable in applying what I've learned and continuing to grow as a performer.

How has your time at GSU shaped you as an artist?
It's given me confidence. I've been able to push my artistic boundaries while building the technical and professional skills needed to navigate the field. I feel prepared to take the next step.

What's next for you after graduation?
This summer, I'll be an emerging artist at the Seagle Music Colony in New York, and I'll continue there as a fall artist in residence. I'll be performing Don Alfonso in "Così fan tutte," covering De Rocher in "Dead Man Walking" and performing in a Leonard Bernstein concert.

What kind of impact do you hope to make through your work?
I hope to connect with audiences in a meaningful way. Whether it's helping someone escape for a moment, making them laugh or giving them something to reflect on, that connection is what makes performing so powerful.

What advice would you give to incoming music students?
Keep going. Not every day will feel successful, but persistence is what makes the difference. Stay committed to the work and trust the process.