Victoria Fragomeni: A Rising Star

By Romina Monaco

While quietly waiting in the wings to perform at one of Vaughan’s many prestigious gala events, Victoria Fragomeni softly hums the meditative tune of an unknown melody. Moments later a captivated audience relishes in her smooth, euphonious rendition of Giacomo Puccini’s Nessun Dorma. Not an easy aria to sing but young Victoria delivers it effortlessly. As her majestic voice cascades over the final stanza a loud cheer erupts across the room. Performing professionally since the age of nine, this is not the first time the classical soloist has received such an ardent ovation.

“I love doing big songs and seeing how people react to my singing. It makes me want to do better. It’s a great feeling to know that I can affect them in such a positive way”, she explains.

Victoria’s exposure to music began when she was still in the womb. Her mother, who had learned of the calming effects associated with music and pregnancy, surrounded herself with modern-day classical ballads. Whether this was the catalyst or if genetics played a factor, there is no denying that she was born with a special gift. Seven years later, while participating in a school Christmas concert, Victoria’s parents recognized her incredible talent for singing and immediately enrolled her in vocal lessons.

Her earliest role model was her paternal grandfather, Giuseppe. Best friend to Victoria and mentor, he nurtured her singing ability until his untimely death in 2010 whereupon her father took over management of the youngster’s budding career.

“My father is my rock. He takes cares of all my bookings and whatever else needs to be done. My mother is my number one fan. They both are really supportive and believe in what I’m doing”, Victoria tells Whatever Vaughan.

Currently attending the Regional Arts Program at St. Roch Secondary School in Brampton, education within the musical spectrum is a journey she plans to continue at the acclaimed Berklee College of Music in Boston. For one so young, Victoria’s determination, maturity and musical style are reflective of an old soul.

“I do my best to balance my singing with school and friends. But if there’s a party going on and I have to perform at an event, I really couldn’t care less about the party!” she admits.

Within the last two years she has bewitched audiences all over the city, appearing at the CNE Bandshell as well as at other numerous public engagements. Additional projects include a showcase with concert director/musician Mark Camilleri and Viva Italia Cuba, an Italian Canadian music event presented by the Evanov Radio Group on the hotel strip of Varadero, Cuba. Victoria also makes time to venture into the recording studio where she is currently working on her newest project – a modern-day classical album. Victoria also exhibits the early traits of philanthropy, supporting Caritas (an addiction rehabilitation centre in the GTA) as well as donating the proceeds of her performances to cancer research.

Yet, Victoria also looks at another dimension of life. “I want to make a whole career out of my singing but I also want to get married one day and have a family. It just can’t be all about this. There has to be more. ”