As a budding musicologist, I remember my Intro to Music History professor lecturing on the birth of Art Song in the beginning of the 19th century. She tied it to
Most opera lovers will always remember their first trip to the Metropolitan Opera. But for Will Liverman, the experience set the stage for the rest of his life—literally. “I attended
Most audition judges are eager to hear any singer whose repertoire choices show some musical curiosity and a sense of adventure. Why choose only the “standard” five arias in your Fach for one audition after another? There’s so much repertoire out there waiting for you! OK, your “list of five” shouldn’t all be arias found off the beaten track, but one or two would certainly be welcomed by those auditioning you. “Aria Savvy” will present two arias per column, introducing you to music that will invigorate you musically while providing a refreshing change for your listeners.
With so much uncertainty, artists should continue to set realistic goals, hoping that the foundations they lay will lead toward a greater result.
In today’s industry, it’s vital to make an impression that engages your audience behind the table, online or in person (a boy can dream, can’t he?). One way to keep the people “leaning in”, is to put your stamp on a musical selection that we haven’t heard a zillion times. In that spirit I’d like to chat briefly about a few songs and shows you may not be quite as familiar with. I’ve selected a gem of a BALLAD for Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Barritone. Gifts for everybody!
A good night’s sleep is one of the most important components of good health. Gone are the days when sleep was equated with inactivity, even indolence. We now recognize that a lot goes on during sleep. Our body gets rid of waste products, including scavenging waste proteins in the brain; our hormones are busy resetting; and, in general, the body undergoes rejuvenation. Lack of adequate sleep, whether in quantity or quality, is considered by some authorities to be a major contributor to chronic illness and even obesity.
Power couple Michelle Johnson and Brian Major make it work, on the operatic stage and off.
December commemorates Maria Callas’ birthday. As we remember her legacy, let us pay tribute to her contributions that transcended traditional vocal technique.
None of us artists really knows what to do, or what's coming next. But I still feel we are essential, even if society (or the government) doesn't appear to feel this way. So what the hell are we supposed to be doing now? My answer: I haven't a clue. But also, not nothing.
But what does this mean for someone whose dream is to be an opera singer and who is willing to give everything to that dream? Faith and optimism are empowering forces on the way to fulfilling a dream, and no one wants to start out with the caveat that the dream may not become true after all. Doubt can be draining and undermining. Many who have gone against the grain to achieve their vision have either had no doubt or been able to overcome their own and others’ skepticism.
Too often text is a secondary consideration when working a new piece into one’s repertoire. To be truly genuine as a performer, however, vocalists should devote the same rigor to text analysis as they do in building their instrument.
Karen Slack is no stranger to the difficulties and setbacks of a classical singing career. But despite closed theaters and cancelled performances, this impressive soprano continues to chart her path and is finding success with new opportunities in leadership and digital platforms. Read how she navigated challenges, how she created new opportunities, her advice to young singers, and the changes she would like to see in the operatic community. The future of classical music is unclear but, regardless of where the industry lands, there will be an important place for Slack.
