June 2007

An All-American Star : Bass-Bariton Kyle Ketelsen

At first glance, Kyle Ketelsen may seem to have followed a conventional career path—a degree from Indiana University, a student of renowned teacher Giorgio Tozzi, and a winner of the Met National Council Auditions. His rise to international fame, however, has been anything but typical, as he shares in this Classical Singer exclusive. Ketelsen tells how six years in the National Guard gave him a different perspective on life, how he sacrifices to keep family a top priority, and about recent lifestyle changes he’s made to make sure he is always on his game.

Perfectly in Tempo

Another audition season is on the horizon, which for many singers means auditioning for Young Artist and outreach programs. Read about one singer’s experiences sharing music with young students in California classrooms—experiences that enriched not only the students’ lives, but the life of this singer as well.

Ask Erda : Getting Candid With Colleagues

A young soprano asks Erda’s advice for dealing with a difficult colleague who, despite the soprano’s clear objections, insists on listing her as a reference. Erda responds with her characteristic wisdom and sound advice. If you have a question for Cindy, e-mail erda@classicalsinger.com.

Inspirazione! : Recording on the Go: A Survey of Small Recorders

What are those little gadgets­—as small as cell phones, as inexpensive as a voice lesson (or two)—that are finding their way into rehearsals, coachings, and lessons? Today, when a singer or teacher wants to capture a moment of sound, the choices are as varied as the quality of the sound and the flexibility of the technology. Lisa Houston takes you on a brief tour, from the dinosaur of the microcassette recorder to the latest iPods, to let you know what’s out there, how it works, and what it costs.

Making It When You Don’t Make It

This month we meet “Karen,” who has been challenged with a number of health problems that might have derailed her singing altogether at any number of steps along the way. With determination and focus, she shows us how—even in the midst of extreme physical difficulties—we can always find ways to let our talents shine, if we remind ourselves that doing our best is a measure that changes from moment to moment.

Ask Dr. Jahn : The Doctor Is In

From combating the negative effects of travel on the voice to discussing the possible side effects of hormone injections required for egg donation, CS’ resident physician has all the answers. If you have a question for Dr. Jahn, e-mail him at Ijahn@classicalsinger.com.

Make Your Summer Sizzle

What do you do when your best-laid plans for the summer don’t manage to come to fruition? One singer shares nine things she does to make the most of summer months.

Ca$h Flow Is King

Most musicians wear many hats, including that of business owner and operator. That means managing money—and for many a right-brained singer that can be a challenge. Lynnette Owens continues her financial series with great tips for monitoring and managing your cash flow better.

Viva La Cancion : Reclaiming the Legacy of Art Song in Spanish

Last month we brought you a review of the third anthology in a Spanish art song series. This month we bring you more news on the push by many to bring this relatively unknown music to light. Read about two advocates of Spanish song and exciting events happening in New York City this month.

Losing the Pounds to Gain the Roles : An Interview with Soprano Elizabeth Caballero

Regardless of whether you agree with current trends, there’s no denying that looks and appearance are becoming ever more important in the world of opera. One successful singer shares her recent weight-loss success story, including how she determined to do it, what keeps her motivated to keep the weight off, and how it has affected her singing and her career.

Editor’s Note : Almost Missed Opportunities

The night before an important nationally televised singing engagement, I tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Even after I got to sleep, I awoke nearly every hour to stare anxiously

Bulletin Board

Submit entries to the Bulletin Board by e-mail at bulletinboard@classicalsinger.com.

Center Stage : Brian Jagde, Baritone

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!

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.

A Word From Ana Maria Martinez : A Strong Advantageous Approach When Entering Auditions and Competitions (continued)

World-renowned soprano Ana María Martinez joins CS with her second article, continuing her sound advice on competitions, including the value of competing even when you don’t win. If you have an issue you’d like Ms. Martinez to address in a future column, e-mail it to editorial@classicalsinger.com.

Creative Self-Marketing for Singers : Ja-Naé Duane and the Wild WE

Singers know that networking is a must to succeed in this profession. One singer who is taking the notion of networking to the next level shares how her unique approach is helping not only female singers, but entrepreneurs in other professions as well.