Mario Bryant is a rising American popera star...
His is eclectic style reflects a diversity of influences, from the Clark Sisters (gospel) to Stevie Wonder (pop, R&B) to Pavarotti (opera). In fact, Mario’s rendition of Pavarotti's signature piece, 'O Sole Mio' has been widely hailed.
Mario was first exposed to music as a child in Cerritos, California, a multicultural city in the heart of the greater Los Angeles/Orange County region. By the age of four he was already singing in his church choir. At home, young Mario would press the keys of his father’s typewriter, pretending to play the piano. His instincts were right, he just needed the right instrument!
It wasn't until high school that he realized he had talent, urged on by his performing arts teacher. While it would have been easy to become a hip hop or rap artist, Mario wisely listened to his teacher and friends. They influenced him to use his music to reach out to the world (not just one race or culture).
College further broadened Mario’s musical horizons by introducing him to the world of classical music. Rhonda Dillon of “Phantom of the Opera” recognized his vocal range and encouraged Mario to try opera. He fell in love with Italian arias and set about mastering them.
During these years Mario performed several times on the Arsenio Hall Show. The audience gave him the confidence to become a professional singer. At the same time, Mario was drawing on his gospel background as a musical director for a series of churches. Although he enjoyed connecting two of his favorite things -- music and church –- he felt there was something missing. In his heart he knew he was meant to do something bigger with his singing. It was clear he was destined to sing professionally. The question was, what genre? He knew and enjoyed R&B, but his inner voice kept drawing him back to classical.
His mother had always told him, “Your gift will make room for you.” He suddenly realized what she’d meant all those years. He didn’t have to choose! He could -- and expertly does -- combine pop and opera in a style that’s uniquely Mario. To date, Mario’s musical accomplishments include appearances on the Arsenio Hall Show, winner of the A&R Dream, performing in concert with the legendary songwriter/producer David Foster in 2009, and sang the National Anthem in 2010 for; . Stater Brother’s Corporate Banquet at the Riverside Convention Center . Opening Ceremony at Route 66 and . NASCAR in Fontana, California.