February 2007

Opera Family : A Tale of Two Singers

Soprano Cynthia Lawrence and tenor Mark Calkins boast more than 20 years of successful singing careers—and more than 20 years of successful marriage. How do these singers manage to juggle two burgeoning careers, two kids, and a committed relationship? CS contributor Stephanie Adrian sat down with the two singers to find out.

Suffer from Stage Fright? : Learn to Sing with Positive Thoughts

Society emphasizes perfection: the perfect body, the perfect hair, the perfect complexion. Flawless, airbrushed images assault us at every turn, silently demanding we live up to them. The era of recordings has created the same unrealistic expectation for singers, and this unattainable pursuit of perfection causes many to suffer from acute stage fright (also known as performance anxiety). Here, several industry experts share ideas for overcoming what can be a debilitating affliction.

Making It When You Don’t ‘Make It’

In this second installment of Michelle Kunz’s series, two women, “Rebecca” and “Joyce,” share the joys, heartache, happiness, and sorrows of being singer, mom, spouse, and daughter.

The Traveling Pet

Are you a singer who travels with your pet? Or are you contemplating doing so? Veterinarian and singer Meredith Kennedy offers terrific tips for making your pet’s next trip a good one for you and your pet.

You Are What You See

In the previous articles in this series, you have discovered the power of the mind and that you are what you think and working to put it down on paper. Take the next step by visualizing what you want. In the process, you’ll discover more about yourself, your wants and desires, and how to make them a reality.

Ask Erda : Starting Late, Starting Strong

A baritone and soprano, both getting a late start in the singing business, query CS’ goddess of earth and wisdom about the best way to get a break. Read Erda’s sage and sound advice. If you have a question for Cindy, e-mail her at erda@classicalsinger.com.

Procrustes and the Singer

CS’ resident physician compares a story from Greek mythology to working with singers. Each singer is unique and individual and must be treated as such, as this tale tells.

A Talk with Dana Beth Miller

After three intense rounds of competition among more than 200 applicants, the judges of the AudComps 2006 named 13 singers Certified Classical Singers for 2006-2007. This month, we highlight soprano Dana Beth Miller, the first-place winner of the Professional Division. Her performances at the Final Round Concert and the Closing Session of the Convention left an indelible impression on all in attendance.

Sibling Rivalry

A brother-sister duo share much more than just DNA. Philip and Philine van Lidth de Jeude also share professions. Read about how sharing both familial and musical ties has enhanced not only their singing lives, but their personal lives as well.

Perserverance Pays Off

With two Young Artist Programs on her résumé and a fruitful future ahead, Cheri Rose Katz was on her way to a burgeoning career. When her father was diagnosed with a terminal illness, however, her career came to a screeching halt. After caring for her father for two years, Katz found it extremely difficult to get back in the business. She almost called it quits, but one “last” audition made all the difference.

Center Stage : Lesia Mackowycz, Lyric Coloratura Soprano

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!

Bulletin Board

European Opera Discusses its Future Opera conferences are set to convene in various European capitals during the weekend of Feb. 16-18. Executives, artists, students, and members of the media and

Letters to the Editor

Tell us how we’re doing. Tell us about the articles that have helped you and articles you’d like to read. Share with us and our readers how YOU are doing
and what you’re finding makes you a more successful classical singer. We would like to publish your comments, received either by e-mail at editorial@classicalsinger.com or in the mail at P.O. Box 1710, Draper, UT 84020. The opinions expressed are not necessarily the view of Classical Singer magazine or the publisher.

Editor’s Note : I Am From...

I recently attended a culture night at a private girls’ school. I thoroughly enjoyed the engaging program including a student’s presentation on her Latin American heritage, the gospel choir’s moving

Strengthening Your Family Through Yoga

This month we take a short detour from the chakra system to explore another aspect of yoga—yoga for your family. Stay tuned for chakra five next month, and in the meantime discover how you can use yoga with your spouse, children, parents, and even your pets!

Singing Parents’ Survival Guide

The rigors of a singing career can make successful parenting a difficult task. One singer, who says that parenting chose her, offers seven sound principles to aid in this challenging but rewarding endeavor. From assessing your values to finding creative ways to practice, here are some terrific tips and tools for every singer who is also a parent.

You, Me, Us and a Career : The Balancing Act

The demands of a singing career can consume every moment of a singer’s life, and adding a partner or spouse to the equation can be challenging. Having a partner or spouse to share your joys and sorrows can be one of the most fulfilling parts of life. Here are four helpful things you can do to balance your relationship and your career, making both as rich and rewarding as possible.

Inspirazione! : A Different Kind of Family: Singers and Their Pets

A Different Kind of Family: Singers and Their Pets
by Lisa Houston

Many singers choose a cat, dog, or other pet for companionship, in lieu of or in addition to their human family members. If you are thinking about this as an option, here are some things to consider in balancing your career and animal companionship.

The Female Singing Voice : Managing Menstruation, Pregnancy, Postpartum Issues, Lactation, and Menopause

Many gifts and blessings come with womanhood—including the ability to create and give life—as well as the joys of hormonal, mood and physical changes through all of the stages of a woman’s life. These changes can dramatically affect the singing voice. One woman and mother shares ideas for vocal management from the onset of menstruation through menopause.

Classical Music CDs for Kids

Looking for a way to share classical music with your children? Theresa Rodriquez reviews a series of family-oriented CDs for moms, dads, and children. Read about what’s available and discover what might be a valuable resource for you and your family.