May 2009 – All Articles

For tenor Richard Margison, music has become a family trade. He has been married since 1989 to Valerie Kuinka, a violist who has made a successful transition to opera director and is now on the directing staff of the Metropolitan Opera. Their daughter, Lauren, has begun a singing career while still in her teens. While Margison was in Madrid performing in a production of I pagliacci, Margison sat down with CS to discuss his lengthy career, how he has managed to carry on a family life at the same time, and how he and his wife are reaching out to the next generation of singers.

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In the midst of a burgeoning career, managed by one of the finest New York agencies, singing in a top-tier Young Artist Program, and already landing main stage roles at

In light of the uncertain financial climate, we continue our new series: how to live on $50 a week. Each month, writer Olivia Giovetti offers budget-saving strategies specific to a singer’s unique lifestyle. This month she tackles trimming your household budget.

Does the old adage “There are no small parts, only small actors” hold true in opera, too? Three truly great singers of comprimario roles weigh in to answer the question.

What is it that makes a performer stand out and be admired? Technique? Acting ability? Beauty? Sure. But there is something that audiences value above all else, something that no one can teach you: being comfortable with yourself.

Everyone from your grandmother to your 14-year-old niece is on Facebook. So how do you use this social networking phenomenon to market your singing?

Three women who once made their living on the stage and now make their living in arts administration discuss the challenges faced as both singers and administrators in balancing career and life.

Four singers query Dr. Jahn for advice on the possible effects of abdominal surgery on a singer’s technique, the most singer-friendly asthma medication, a near-death choking experience, and the possible causes of chronic hoarseness. If you have a question for the doctor, e-mail him at jahn@classicalsinger.com.

You’ve heard the old axiom, “There’s no such thing as bad publicity.” But does this really apply in the business of classical singing? Find out and get some great advice here.

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