AMICI FAQs

About the organization

  • What is your mission? The AMICI mission is to support young opera singers in the furtherance of their careers and help opera and classical music thrive. For more information please review the AMICI History.

  • Who is on your leadership team? 

    • President: Claire Stahel - Mrs. Harry C. Stahel

    • Vice President: Mrs. Constance Cowart Young

    • Membership: Michelle Schlafly - Mrs. M.Kimball Schlafly

    • Treasurer: Mr. Christopher Walker

  • Is the organization a registered 501(c)(3)? Yes. We are registered in the State of Louisiana.

  • Who does your organization serve? AMICI supports the young opera stars of tomorrow and provides a venue for them to come to the attention of New York’s Metropolitan Opera. We also give them the opportunity to hone their skills in front of live audiences and competition judges.

  • How will my donation be used? As AMICI is staffed and run by volunteers, administrative costs are small. Donations are used for prize money for the Laffont Competition New Orleans District and Gulf Coast Region winners and to rent the audition auditorium and hire the accompanist, etc.

Getting involved

  • How can I join? Become a member!

  • How can I donate? Here is a link to the donation page.

  • How can I volunteer? Members help with the District, Regional Auditions, fundraisers, and other functions by volunteering for the following activities: 

    • Judges transportation

    • Preparing audition programs

    • Box office at auditions and fundraisers

    • Audition Back-stage support

    • Provide Hospitality for the audition competitors and other volunteers

    • For further information: here is the link to the Amici volunteers webpage.

  • Can I attend the local Met Laffont Auditions?

    • The public is warmly welcome to attend. The District competition, usually on a Saturday in January/February after Mardi Gras, is free to everyone. The Gulf Region Competition the next day is free for AMICI members, students and faculty, and $15 for the public.

    • How can I stay updated on your work? We are always updating our progress and events, so check out our News page at and our social media pages! We are on Facebook at and on Instagram so check those out!