Penelope Makeig shares her journey from discovering a love for opera at age 12 while attending Maharishi School in Fairfield, Iowa, to fulfilling her dream of singing professionally in Europe as an adult. She reflects on the experience of performing in prestigious musical settings and her evolution as a performer. Ms. Makeig also discusses how her practice of Transcendental Meditation and Maharishi AyurVeda health habits helps her stay rested and refreshed, supporting both her voice and overall well-being amid a demanding schedule, enabling her to deliver peak performances on stage.
American coloratura soprano Penelope Makeig (stage name Penelope Kendros) is based in Germany and was a member of the ensemble of soloists at the Landestheater Detmold from 2021–2024. In 2025, she joined the ensemble at the Oldenburg State Theater. Ms. Makeig received her bachelor’s degree at the University of Iowa and earned her master’s degree with distinction in vocal performance at the Music and Performing Arts University of Vienna.
Penelope Makeig shares her journey from discovering a love for opera at age 12 while attending Maharishi School in Fairfield, Iowa, to fulfilling her dream of singing professionally in Europe as an adult.
Ms. Makeig has had the pleasure of performing in some of the world’s finest concert halls, including the Musikverein in Vienna and the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. She has participated in several competitions and was awarded third prize at the 35th Maria Caniglia International Competition in Sulmona, Italy, in 2020. She is also a winner of the International Fidelio Competition, a finalist in the 21st Osaka International Music Competition, a recipient of the Yehudi Menuhin Live Music Now stipend, and a Fulbright grant awardee.
Christine Albers, host of TM Talks, interviewed Penelope Makeig. This interview was aired on July 20, 2025.
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