Background
Natalia Leslie is a Romanian-American soprano currently based in Houston, Texas. Natalia received her Bachelor’s in Voice Performance with a minor in French studies from Baylor University. While there, she performed many principal roles with Baylor Opera Theatre, including Laurie in Copland's The Tender Land and the title role of Gilbert and Sullivan's Patience. Today, Natalia is a graduate student at the University of Houston pursuing a Master of Music in Vocal Performance and Vocal Pedagogy as well as a Master of Arts in Arts Leadership. With the University of Houston’s Moore's Opera Center, she has performed roles such as Amy in Little Women and Lauretta in Gianni Schicchi. Most recently, she made her role debut as Königin der Nacht in Die Zauberflöte, as well as debuting the role of Alice in Tom Cipullo’s newest opera, Hobson’s Choice. Her artistic interests span the standard operatic repertoire and contemporary music. She has extensive experience with new music and has performed in numerous world premieres of art songs, operas, and chamber works. Now, Natalia looks forward to premiering new works and performing with the AURA Contemporary Ensemble during its 2026-2027 season.