Behind the Curtain: An Intimate Autobiographical Probe Into the Esoteric World of Opera

A native of Queens, N.Y., Maestro Weibel was never in doubt about the avenue his future career would take. His talent and love for musical expression began at an early age. He attended both the Juilliard School and Mannes College of Music in Manhattan where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in conducting and piano. Upon graduation he was awarded a Fulbright scholarship from the U.S. government for further study of opera and conducting in Italy. While there he acquired a wealth of valuable experience and knowledge as well as a beautiful young Italian model, Pasquina Scarpa, as his wife.

Weibel's professional life began at the Cincinnati Summer Opera, which led to a job offer from the Metropolitan Opera. Maestro Weibel worked there on the musical staff of the world's leading opera house for eleven years. During these rich years, he served as assistant to Leonard Bernstein, Claudio Abbado, Sir Georg Solti, and many more.

The Maestro coached and conducted some of the most illustrious singers of the 20th century including Joan Sutherland, Luciano Pavarotti (who was godfather to his two sons), and Renata Tebaldi. He conducted opera at international opera houses and in the United States.

William M. Weibel led a colorful life as an opera conductor culminating in a twelve-year tenure as Artistic Director at Opera in the Heights in Houston, Texas. He passed away on Oct. 3, after a long illness.