Adriana Mihaela Zarzu - a Journey of Faith, Strength, and Timeless Music

Personal Introduction

Born in the scenic landscapes of Eastern Europe and now shining under the sunny skies of California, Adriana Mihaela Zarzu is a classically trained soprano who’s masterfully blending the worlds of pop/rock and classical music. As a self-taught artist, her captivating charm and unique sound breakthrough genre and cultural barriers, captivating a diverse audience with every note. Zarzu, with her demonstrated passion for music, strives to provide a unique dimension to conventional styles, crafting melodies that resonate emotionally with her audience. Her motivation stems from challenges encountered in today’s world. Promising to be a comfort in distress, her music aims to inspire faith, offer solace, and bring joy. 

Adriana isn’t just a polyglot, fluent in two languages and conversational in German; she also sings beautifully in five languages. This remarkable ability not only showcases her linguistic talent but also widens her connection with fans across the globe, touching hearts and bridging cultures.

Her music career, charged with accolades, spans performing at local theaters to enchanting audiences in Vienna, Austria. She has recently joined the ranks of the Sacramento Philharmonic Opera and lends her voice in the Chorus section. 

Her hard work has truly paid off; in 2021, she clinched the First Prize in Classical Repertoire at the American Protege International Vocal Competition. But her string of achievements didn’t end there. The following year, in 2022, she was honored with the Recognition Award from iClassical Academy, in partnership with Sound Espressivo. Meanwhile, Zarzu’s participation in the 2022 Enchant Christmas Sacramento production added a melodious charm to the world’s largest winter wonderland.

The singer’s triumphant streak continued into 2023, as she performed her first recital on the esteemed stage of Carnegie Hall’s Laureate Gala and subsequently lent her voice to the Sacramento Opera and Chorus in operatic productions like “La Bohème” by Giacomo Puccini and “Die Fledermaus” by J. Strauss Jr.

Furthermore, in 2024, she received the Diamond Prize at the World Music Competition. She achieved the top three during the San Francisco Pro-Music Vocal competition as well as the top two in the Global International Vocal Music competition. 

Regular fans of Zarzu’s music are well aware of the deep emotional resonance in her performances, but even if you’re new to her sound, you’ll be immediately captivated by her unique and timeless quality. Through her songs, including “Il Mia Core Va/My Heart Will Go On,” “Favola Breve,” “Ave Maria,” “Love Like This,” and “Nella Fantasia,” she beautifully crafts stories of faith, strength, and comfort.

Through her journey, Zarzu wishes to inspire more emerging artists, emphasizing the power of faith, persistence, and passion in transforming dreams into realities. Feel free to explore her music on Spotify, engage with her on Instagram, or follow her journey on YouTube.

Introduction to one of my absolute favorite arias "Ave Maria" by Giulio Caccini

I would like to share my thoughts on a song that holds a special place in my heart - "Ave Maria" by Giulio Caccini. As I prepared to delve into the depths of this timeless piece, I found myself captivated by its profound beauty and emotional resonance. The haunting melody and poignant lyrics struck a chord within me, compelling me to explore the depths of its meaning and significance. 

In choosing this song, I was drawn to its ability to transcend time and space, touching the hearts and souls of listeners across generations. The divine essence captured within its notes speaks to the universal human experience of love, loss, and redemption. As I immersed myself in the process of interpreting and preparing to perform "Ave Maria," I was moved by the profound sense of connection it fostered within me. Through countless hours of practice and reflection, I have come to appreciate the intricate layers of emotion and spirituality woven into the fabric of this piece. Each note, each phrase, carries with it a profound sense of longing and devotion, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of introspection and self-discovery. In embracing the challenge of interpreting "Ave Maria," I have gained a deeper understanding of the power of music to transcend language and culture, uniting us in a shared experience of beauty and grace. 

Feelings about winning the Universal Stars Music Competition

I am deeply honored and humbled to accept this prestigious music award from WOMCO. This recognition means the world to me and serves as a reminder of the passion and dedication I pour into my music every day. I am grateful for the support of my fans, my team, and all those who believed in me along this incredible journey. This award is not just a reflection of my hard work, but also a testament to the power of music to unite and inspire us all. Thank you for this incredible honor.