The Milnes VOICE Programs has appointed a new Executive Director. Torlef Borsting will join the Milnes VOICE Programs (Savannah VOICE Festival and VOICExperience) beginning in January 2026.

Borsting is an accomplished arts administrator and performer with extensive experience in opera leadership and community engagement. Maria Zouves, Co-Founder and President of the Milnes VOICE Programs and Savannah VOICE Festival, said the organization is looking forward to working with him.

“We are very pleased to welcome Torlef Borsting to the Milnes VOICE Programs. His passion for vocal arts, combined with a deep understanding of arts administration and education, makes him an exceptional choice to guide our mission forward,” said Zouves. “As we continue to nurture the next generation of vocal talent, Torlef’s vision and experience will be instrumental in expanding our reach and impact.”

Borsting is a previous Milnes VOICE program participant. He performed in the 2023 and 2024 Savannah VOICE Festival concerts, including singing the roles of Sharpless in Madama Butterfly and the Major General in Pirates of Penzance. He currently lives in Florida where he oversees donor relations, sponsorship initiatives, and strategic fundraising as the Development Director for First Coast Opera in St. Augustine Florida. He said he is excited to start a new chapter in Savannah.

“Stepping into this role feels like coming home,” said Borsting. “My wife and I have had the privilege of performing with the Milnes VOICE Programs over the years and to now serve this incredible organization in a leadership capacity is a full-circle moment.”

The VOICE Programs (Savannah VOICE Festival and VOICExperience) serve artists and patrons locally and globally, always embracing the ideals of a diverse community. The Savannah VOICE Festival is a nonprofit arts organization that brings classical vocal excellence to the Savannah, Georgia area through a celebration of concerts, events and educational presentations during the month of August and throughout the year. VOICExperience is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established by world-renowned baritone Sherrill Milnes and soprano Maria Zouves. Its mission is to pass on the traditions of great singing and develop new audiences for opera. Since 2001, VOICExperience has helped thousands of singers find their career path through educational programs and workshops, where emerging artists work with the best names in opera, musical theatre and song.

For more information about the Milnes VOICE Programs, please visit www.savannahvoicefestival.org and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.