Keeping the tradition alive
Welcome to my blog, dedicated to the traditional operatic singing method developed by Arturo Melocchi and Marcello del Monaco.
I’m Ignas Melnikas, a professional opera singer (bass-baritone) and vocal coach, passionate about preserving and sharing this powerful, nearly forgotten technique.
My journey with the Melocchi method began over a decade ago, fueled by a deep curiosity about its effectiveness and the legendary voices it helped shape. I had the privilege of studying in Italy with direct students of Mario and Marcello del Monaco, gaining hands-on insight into the method’s principles and practice. Through this immersive experience, I not only studied the method — I became part of a lineage that carries forward its tradition. Inheriting this legacy comes with a deep sense of responsibility: to preserve the method's authenticity and pass it on as it was truly intended.
With more than ten years of teaching and performance experience, I’ve appeared on the stages of Teatro Regio di Parma, Auditorio de Tenerife, Teatro Rossini di Pesaro, Teatro Donizetti di Bergamo, Lithuanian National Philharmonic, Teatro Olimpico di Vicenza and Teatro San Carlo di Napoli. My students have also gone on to perform at venues like the Vienna State Opera, Teatro San Carlo di Napoli, Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre, and international festivals.
Today, as traditional operatic training declines worldwide, I’m committed to keeping the Melocchi technique alive. Known as “The Builder of Voices,” Melocchi’s approach uses specific physiological exercises to train the laryngeal muscles—producing voices of exceptional power, clarity, and range.
This blog is both a resource and a tribute: here you'll find translated interviews with Melocchi’s and del Monaco’s students, articles on vocal physiology, historical context, and practical guidance for singers seeking to develop their voice using this time-tested approach.
Stay tuned for exclusive interviews, deep dives into vocal science, and tools to help you on your vocal journey.
“Ignas completely transformed my vocal technique. I went from struggling with projection and high notes to singing confidently on one of the world’s biggest stages — the Vienna State Opera.”
“The Melocchi Method has taken my voice to places I never thought possible. Ignas is an amazing teacher—really detailed, super knowledgeable, and totally dedicated to this old-school method.”