2006 – Page 10

From vocal fatigue, to hormone replacement therapy, to the effects of an uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (if you’re wondering what in the world that is – read on) on the singing voice, Dr. Jahn gives all the information you need to know. If you have a question for Dr. Jahn, e-mail jahn@classicalsinger.com.

Singers need a good instrument, talent, and training—and plenty of energy. This is the first in a series of articles on the “Chakra System”—or energy center—in the body. Suzanne Jackson explains how a better understanding of your chakras can help not just your physical wellbeing but your singing as well.

Preparing for an audition includes many details, from learning the music to finding that perfect audition
outfit. When it comes time to put together your binder, often singers don’t put it together so much as throw it together. Don’t let your music binder put you in a bind at your next audition.

The face of Houston Grand Opera’s Studio recently changed, with two new appointments: Hector Vasquez and Kathleen Kelly. As Diane Zola becomes artistic director of HGO, Vasquez and Kelly discuss their new roles with HGO’s Studio.

In this issue about Young Artist Programs, we shine the spotlight on the Houston Grand Opera Studio. Read about the logistics of the program, and about the exciting new changes happening at HGO.

A former Cobra helicopter pilot and U.S. Marine Corps officer, Charles Robert Austin now makes his living on the operatic stage. After a difficult experience at the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, Mr. Austin saw first hand the difference a fine teacher and Young Artist Programs can make to the career of a young singer.

Young Artist Programs often combine outreach programs with some main stage work. Here’s one singer’s perspective on what outreach has to offer, not only to children and schools, but also to singers. Have a laugh at some of the crazy things kids say, and also find out if you’re cut out for the rigors of an outreach program.

Denver (and its surrounding areas) is home to several opera companies and Young Artist Programs. CS’ Maria Nockin visited Opera Colorado and its Ensemble participants in March and returns with a full report. With a stunning new facility, notable graduates singing in major opera houses, and a world premiere in 2006, the Opera Colorado Ensemble is quickly making a name for itself.

Opera America Honors Colorado Teacher Opera America’s 2006 conference in Seattle made a point of honoring Bennett, Colo. music teacher Tresa Waggoner at its May 6 closing session. When Waggoner

Each month CS highlights one of its readers. If you’d like to take Center Stage in an upcoming issue of Classical Singer, visit www.classicalsinger.com/magazine/center_stage/. Tell us about yourself, and upload a picture. We want to know about you!

Dear Editor: Classical Singer has been a wonderful tool and great inspiration for me as a young singer. Some of the articles I appreciate most are the personal interviews with

“Music is the invisible art, the only art that you can’t actually see. It’s all vibration. You have to remember that you’re putting a vibration into the world.” When Steven