What do you get when you combine classically trained singers and musicians with pop music? You get Klassika®!
The performers bring a seasoned flair to the popular songs of today, adding a whole new level of depth with their refinement. Their song choices cross border lines as they perform in different languages such as Spanish, Italian, French, and English. Klassika® performs a variety of favorites such as You Raise Me Up, The Prayer, My Heart Will Go On, and more current songs such as Writing’s On The Wall, Just The Way You Are, All Of Me, and many more.
Chris Romeo has been passionate about music since the sixth grade. He discovered his true voice while studying at the University of South Florida, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Vocal Performance. A dedicated performer and educator, Chris is currently the Artistic Director of Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota and One City Chorus of St. Pete. He also serves as a Professor of Voice at St. Leo University and performs regularly with the St. Pete Opera Company. Driven by a desire to use music as a force for healing, Chris pursued a degree in Music Therapy, allowing him to work with individuals with special needs, as well as those living with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Through music, he helps them develop new skills and reconnect with lost abilities. Chris brings his talent and creativity to Klassika not only as a tenor but also as a composer and arranger.
“Being able to express myself through the harmonies I write is such an amazing experience I know few people get to feel.” – Chris Romeo
Born and raised in South Africa, Jolanda Nel grew up in a home filled with music. Some of her happiest childhood memories are of singing in harmony with her family during long road trips—moments that sparked a lifelong love of music.Jolanda holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Performing Arts (Opera) from the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria. Her passion for performance has taken her around the world, with appearances in South Africa, Namibia, Ireland, England, Italy, Canada, and the United States. After years of performing primarily opera, Jolanda founded Klassika in 2013 to explore her favorite genre: Classical Crossover. As both the group’s founding member and manager, she has embraced countless opportunities that continue to inspire and fulfill her artistic vision.Now based in the United States, Jolanda is not only a celebrated soprano but also a proud wife and mother to two wonderful sons. Her journey is a testament to the power of music, family, and following one’s passion.
When he’s not teaching voice and piano, Derek Roura is lighting up stages across Tampa Bay, Orlando, and beyond as a dynamic singing pianist. With nearly a decade of professional experience, Derek is passionate about both performance and mentorship, dedicating his time to developing his own artistry while guiding fellow creatives. A graduate of the University of South Florida, Derek studied a wide range of vocal techniques, including Contemporary Commercial Music and Bel Canto. This diverse training allows him to seamlessly transition between genres—from classical and musical theatre to pop, rock, and beyond. In addition to his solo performances, Derek is a proud member of Klassika and performs with other projects including Mash Makers, Hurricane Eyes, and Rhythm Me Up. He also collaborates with artists such as Ced Lyfe, Maria Jade, and Angelina Baxter. Derek writes and releases original music, which can be found on platforms like Spotify, Instagram, and YouTube. His artistry blends technical skill with heartfelt storytelling—whether he’s on stage, in the studio, or behind the piano.
Stephanie McCranie Kelly is the Co-Founder of The Musical Athlete, an international platform that integrates breath, health, and fitness training for singers across the globe. Through this work, she has collaborated with numerous prestigious opera companies and organizations, and regularly contributes articles on vocal wellness to Classical Singer Magazine. As a performer, Stephanie has graced the stage with companies such as The Dallas Opera, Opera Colorado, Opera Tampa, St. Pete Opera, Gulf Coast Symphony, Space Coast Symphony Orchestra, Opera del Sol, and Central Florida Vocal Arts. In parallel with her performing career, Stephanie has a strong passion for education. She has served on the voice faculty at Texas A&M University–Commerce, University of the Incarnate Word, and University of Tampa. She currently teaches through her private vocal studio, Kelly Studios, where she mentors singers of all levels. Stephanie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Stetson University and a Master’s in Vocal Performance from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.
