All Articles – Page 234

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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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!