Board of Directors
The Board of Directors of the Euro-Guyanese Classical Music & Opera Association Inc. provides strategic leadership and governance to advance the Association’s mission of promoting classical music, opera, cultural exchange, and artistic excellence in Guyana.
Executive Board
Luca Pierantoni – Interim President
Ambassador Luca Pierantoni joined the European Union 25 years ago. He served in Sudan, between 2005 and 2008, during the Darfur crisis. He worked in Thailand and Myanmar between 2008 and 2013. In 2014 he was nominated Head of the EU Regional Cooperation in the Caribbean, being posted initially in Guyana and later in Barbados. In 2019 he was appointed Head of the EU Cooperation to Argentina where we worked until 2024. Just before being nominated Ambassador to Guyana, Suriname, and CARICOM, he served as the Head of the Political Team at the European Commission’s Representation in Italy. Ambassador Pierantoni is a Lawyer with a Law Degree and Masters in EU Law and economics awarded by the University of Naples, Italy.
Christian Sobers- Vice President
Christian Sobers is a Guyanese musician, music educator, creative entrepreneur, and arts advocate with over 15 years of industry experience. He is Director of Music Unlimited Studios and President of Alliance Française Guyana, promoting music education and cultural exchange. With international training and collaborations, including a GMA Dove Award-nominated project, he is committed to creating opportunities for Guyanese artists and showcasing local talent globally.
Maria Rodrigues – Director of Production
She holds a degree in Orchestral Conducting from the University of Arts in Havana and an MBA from MIU City University Miami. Her career includes performances across Cuba, Suriname, Turkey, and Guyana. From 2021 to 2024, she was the resident headliner at the Ramada Georgetown Princess.
She has become widely recognized as a leading Latin singer and musician in Guyana. María regularly performs within the public and diplomatic sectors, including for international delegations. Her cultural collaborations include Mashramani, GUYEXPO, and the Christmas Village Opening. She also served as the featured pianist for the European Union’s Opera Night at St. George’s Cathedral. Her repertoire specializes in classical, international, and Latin music.
Leonida Foo – Secretary
Leonida Minalla Foo is a distinguished community leader and business professional with over two decades of experience in Guyana. She has played a significant role in strengthening Guyana–Dominican Republic relations through diplomacy, trade, business development and community service. As founder of the Dominican Association of Guyana, she has been a dedicated advocate for the Dominican community and the promotion of its culture.
Dr. Alista Bishop – Treasurer
Dr. Alista Bishop is an accomplished Guyanese finance executive, author and community leader with wide experience in accounting, governance and leadership across the Caribbean. She serves as Chair of the European Chamber of Commerce in Guyana and is passionate about education, youth empowerment and creating opportunities for young people.
Shanette Johnson – Assistant Secretary
Shanette Johnson is an accomplished administrative professional and Secretary with the European Union, bringing over 20 years of experience in administration, professional services, and Human Resources. Throughout her career, she has gained valuable experience working within the public service and diplomatic organisation, developing strong expertise in administration, coordination, people management, and organisational support.
Aliyah Hinds – Assistant Treasurer
Aliyah Hinds is a Guyanese legal professional and community leader with experience in leadership, advocacy and community engagement. She is passionate about culture, the arts and celebrating Guyana’s rich cultural heritage. She supports initiatives that strengthen meaningful connections between Guyana and the wider world.
Chie Clarke – Artistic Director
Chie Clarke was Born in Japan andStarted playing the violin at age of six.
Teaching the violin in Guyana since 2008 at the Clemsville Music Conservatory.
Dee George – Institutional Relations Director
Dee George is a Guyanese hospitality entrepreneur and cultural advocate with more than two decades of experience in hospitality, tourism and business development. She has long championed heritage, culture and authentic experiences. She brings to the Guyana–European Opera and Classical Association another passion for cultural exchange and for expanding access to music and the performing arts.
Katusha Frazer – Training and Education Director
Katusha Frazer is an accomplished vocalist, educator and artistic director with extensive international experience in opera and classical music. She trained in Hong Kong and London and has performed with leading orchestras, conductors and distinguished international audiences. She has taught at several major universities and performing arts institutions in Hong Kong.
Amber Low – Private Sector Relations Director
Alanna Farmer – Legal Affairs Director
Alanna Farmer is an Attorney-at-Law admitted to practice since 2013, with a professional career spanning law, regulation and AML compliance. With a keen interest in finance, sustainability and business, she also holds an MBA in Sustainable Finance. Beyond her professional pursuits, she is an aspiring violinist with a deep appreciation for European classical music and opera.
Professional Members
Marilyn Dewar
Delmar Lancaster
Rudder Clemsville
Kelly Valenzuela
Pauline Mitchell