FARMINGTON – Jesus Garcia, a rising young American opera singer, will give a recital at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 12, in Nordica Auditorium at the University of Maine at Farmington.

Hailed by critics throughout the country as the “young Pavarotti,” according to concert organizer’s release, Garcia has received glowing reviews from critics and standing ovations in concert halls. He has made numerous television appearances, including “Today,” the Tony Awards telecast, and “Breakfast With the Arts” on the A&E network. He has also won many competitions, including the 2001 Metropolitan Opera Auditions and Placido Domingo’s World Opera Competition.

The Arts Institute of Western Maine, with support from the University of Maine at Farmington, the Nordica Memorial Association and the UMF Student Senate, is making it possible for Maine residents to see an internationally recognized artist in a small concert hall. Organizers say this is the first time a singer of this caliber has performed in Nordica Auditorium since Lillian Nordica herself.

Tickets are available for $10, or $8 for seniors and $5 for children 12 and under. Tickets may be purchased at Mickey’s Hallmark on Main Street. Tickets may be held at the door for those who mail a check to the Arts Institute at P.O. Box 821, Wilton, ME 04294. More information may be obtained by calling Kate at 778-7136.