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Opera Singer Takes ‘Center Stage’ — at Dodger Stadium

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Update: Titans stood tall with their hands over their hearts as Titan opera student Danielle Pribyl sang the national anthem last Friday night at Dodger Stadium. As seen in the video above, it was an impressive performance.

“It was an incredible feeling, singing for so many people,” said Pribyl. “It was like time stood still. I felt my stomach drop as I watched the clock hit the time I was supposed to sing, and I saw the camera woman cue me and I just felt like I was floating on air. It was amazing. I couldn’t stop smiling after!”

It will, undoubtedly, be the largest audience she has ever sung for, but it won’t faze Cal State Fullerton opera student Danielle Pribyl as she steps onto Dodger field and sings the national anthem before a crowd of thousands attending the Sept. 6 CSUF Night at Dodger Stadium.

Watching from home, grandma — a Dodger fan — will be “over the moon.”

“I am super excited and a little nervous,” Pribyl admitted. “It isn’t opera but what an experience! And what a way to kick off my final year at Cal State Fullerton.”

“The Star-Spangled Banner” is not the easiest song to sing, she said, adding you have to begin the song deeper. But she’s had practice: she’s been singing it at sporting events all through her high school and at Saddleback College where her mother works.

Pribyl has taken voice lessons since she was 5-6 years old. She sung in honor choir since elementary school. And for the last four years, she has gained experience and support from CSUF’s renowned music program.

“Given Danielle’s beautiful voice, effervescent personality, as well as her expressive talents, she was an obvious choice for this wonderful opportunity,” said Mark Goodrich, professor of music and vocal area coordinator, who recommended her for the one-night-only performance. “She has been very active singing lead roles in our opera productions and she also was chosen to participate in a young artist program this summer.” 

For that summer experience in Germany, Pribyl had to learn a full opera and other select songs — in a month. “I worked every single day on the material,” she said. “When I arrived, I knew the music better than anyone. It’s just how they teach us here at CSUF.”

More information about the School of Music is available online. For additional information, call the Music Office at 657-278-3511.

Special event tickets are still available to the CSUF Dodgers Night and can be purchased through the MLB site