Irma M. Cooper was a champion of young singers in every way. A co-founder of Opera Columbus and professional singer herself, her legacy continues at multiple institutions with programs to support artists. As founder of the American Institute of Musical Studies in Austria, she funded scholarships for students while inspiring a sense of entrepreneurship and independence in them. The Irma Cooper Endowment Fund for International Studies in Music at Ohio State University where she served on the faculty supports international training for young artists. At Opera Columbus, she helped create a vocal competition for young artists, now named the Cooper-Bing Competition. Ms. Cooper was known for her magnetic personality, kindness, and love of opera.
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