Steve Valenzuela
Baritone
Meet Steve
Steve Valenzuela is a dynamic and versatile baritone, known for his warm, resonant voice, magnetic comedic timing, and commanding stage presence. With a repertoire that spans comic charmers, romantic leads, and dramatic roles, Steve brings a deep sense of connection and storytelling to every performance.
Recent highlights include the playful Papageno (The Magic Flute), the charismatic Escamillo (Carmen), and the heartfelt Marcello (La bohème) — roles that showcase just a few facets of a career marked by stylistic range and vocal strength. Critics have praised him as “consistently amusing” and emotionally engaging, noting his ability to blend vocal finesse with physical storytelling on stage.
Originally from Waterbury, Connecticut, Steve holds a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from Louisiana State University and a Bachelor of Music from Western Connecticut State University. He has performed with companies including Opera San José, First Coast Opera, and Winter Opera St. Louis, continually earning recognition for his expressive artistry and ability to captivate audiences across a wide array of repertoire.
Escamillo – Carmen (Bizet)
In this excerpt from Bizet's Carmen, baritone Steve Valenzuela performs the iconic aria Votre toast as Escamillo, the confident and charismatic toreador. Performed with Shreveport Opera, this role showcases Steve's powerful voice and commanding stage presence, bringing Escamillo’s bravado and charm to life.
Escamillo is one of the most celebrated roles in the operatic baritone repertoire, and Steve's portrayal was praised for its boldness, vocal richness, and dramatic intensity.
