Do you have family members who don’t quite share your passion for opera? Kith and kin who attend your performances because they love you, but do so a bit begrudgingly? If you can relate, read this singer’s clever solution, which helped her father better appreciate opera when he traveled across the ocean to see her perform at a summer program. Fact or fiction? You decide.
A modern-day pioneer, Dan Montez began Taconic Opera eight years ago. Montez’ dedication to his family led him to leave behind a traditional singing career and look for alternate ways of making a living while still being actively involved in opera. His regional opera company is making this ideal a reality for other singers, too. Read what Mr. Montez looks for in singers he hires, what advice he has for singers—including avoiding negativity and how to set goals—as well as how he manages all aspects of his opera company, from artistic direction to marketing.
CS’ Fulbright Scholar finished her language training and now begins her real study, in Leipzig. Read how her international experiences open her eyes to nationalistic trends in both America and Germany, and cause her to reevaluate and expand her original course of study.
Erda, the erstwhile earth goddess, shares her practical knowledge and words of wisdom with all who inquire. This month, she shares her wisdom on the value of education and the impact of illness on your career. If you have a question for Erda, write to editorial@classicalsinger.com.
Do you dread that certain time of the month, not only for the mood swings and the physical discomfort, but more importantly for the vocal havoc menstruation can cause? CS’ resident physician explains what happens physically each month, and provides some singer-friendly remedies to help you miss as few gigs as possible.
Heldentenor Goes to Valhalla James King passed away in Naples, Fla., on Nov. 20 at the age of 80, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. He began singing as a
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: I can’t tell you how much I enjoy your publication. From my heart—thank you. I read cover-to-cover, always. —Bethany Neese, Santa Rosa, Calif. Dear Editor: I would love
Juggling career and family is not a topic unique to classical singers. Mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, sons, and daughters in most every profession face the challenge of prioritizing and balancing
With three Grammies and more than 50 recordings under her belt, soprano Dawn Upshaw has carved a unique career path that is entirely her own. She has sung to critical acclaim in the most famous opera houses of the world, from Salzburg to the Met, but also devotes much of her time to promoting contemporary works in concerts and recitals. Ms. Upshaw shares her views on the differences between operatic and concert work, her tips for learning contemporary music, and how her out-of-the-ordinary home life helps her balance career and family.
World-renowned tenor and master teacher Carlo Bergonzi shared his Bel Canto expertise in a series of master classes in China last summer. Joanna Lee was there, and gives CS a full report.
Each month, Classical Singer highlights two of the 14 singers our panel of distinguished judges chose from more than 200 applicants at the 2005 AudComps for having a ready-to-go audition package appropriate to their Artist Division. This month we spotlight Jennifer Gill from the Young Artist Division and Rebecca Whitlow from the Professional Division.