Hey there, fellow opera enthusiasts and historians!
As I'm preparing for my debut as Vitellia next month, I'm endlessly fascinated by the political themes and character relationships in Clemenza di Tito. I'm having such a blast exploring this character for the first of what I'm sure will be many times, and I'd like to bring you all along on the journey! Picture this: Ancient Rome, where betrayal, forgiveness, and redemption intertwine in a captivating tale of love and duty. On September 6, 1791, at the Estates Theatre in Prague, audiences were treated to the premiere of this operatic gem, where the music of Mozart and the storytelling prowess of Caterino Mazzolà merged to transport audiences to a world of passion and intrigue, and created something truly magical. A brief synopsis for those not familiar with the opera: set between 79 and 81 BC, the de-throned Empress-to-be Vitellia seduces and manipulates her lover, Sesto, into killing the new Emperor Tito, who usurped the throne after her father was defeated in war. Vitellia has a dual motive: to take back the throne that she was groomed to ascend; and seek revenge on Tito, whom she claimed to love, for having chosen a Jewish exile as his bride instead of her. But after Sesto departs to commit the murder, Vitellia is told that Tito has indeed chosen her to be his wife. Vitellia is too late to stop Sesto, but luckily amidst the chaos in the capital, Sesto mistakenly struck Lentulo instead of Tito, and no one was fatally harmed; but the Senate condemns Sesto anyway for attempted regicide. The final judgment of Sesto's fate falls to Tito, who mercifully absolves the conspirators, even after Vitellia admits her role in the plot to him. The Emperor grapples with the weight of mercy and the complexities of loyalty and love. As Tito navigates political intrigue and personal dilemmas, the themes of forgiveness and consequence take center stage, weaving a narrative that resonates across the ages. Caterino Mazzolà was a humble court official in Prague, surrounded by the city's vibrant arts scene. Through chance encounters and shared passions, Mazzolà caught the eye of none other than Mozart himself. Impressed by Mazzolà's talent for spinning tales and his deep understanding of human nature, Mozart invited him to collaborate on La Clemenza di Tito. And so, Mazzolà embarked on an unexpected journey from bureaucrat to librettist. At the heart of La Clemenza di Tito are the richly drawn characters and their complex relationships. Tito's struggle to balance mercy and justice, Sesto's loyalty torn between Tito and Vitellia, and Vitellia's conflicting desires—all resonate with the intricacies of human nature. Through these characters, timeless themes of forgiveness, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions are explored, inviting us to reflect on our own lives and relationships. While Clemenza di Tito is set in ancient Rome, its themes speak to audiences across time and place. In a world marked by political turmoil and moral ambiguity, the opera reminds us of the importance of compassion, integrity, and accountability in leadership. The character of Tito, with his capacity for forgiveness and empathy, serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the transformative power of mercy in the face of adversity. The enchanting world of La Clemenza di Tito allows us to not only get lost in a fantastic portrayal of one of mankind's most dramatic eras, but inspires us to reflect on the lessons learned from Tito and his court. Through music and storytelling, Mozart and Mazzolà have gifted us with a timeless tale of compassion and consequence, reminding us of the enduring power of forgiveness and the importance of integrity. So, until next time, may the echoes of Mozart's melodies and Mazzolà's words inspire you to live with compassion, and clemenza! Cheers! Taylor
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Hey there, opera divas and divos -
Today, we're going to dive into a realm of glamour, fierceness, and unapologetic self-expression: RuPaul's Drag Race! Now, you might be wondering, what does a reality TV show about drag queens have to do with opera? Well, more than you might think! Let's take a journey through the sequins and high notes to uncover what opera singers can glean from the fabulous world of drag. First off, let's talk about fashion. Drag queens are masters of creating unforgettable looks that not only captivate the eye but also tell a story. Similarly, opera singers can use fashion as a tool to enhance their performances, conveying the essence of their characters through wardrobe choices that speak volumes. Even though we as opera singers are rarely in charge of costuming, how you present yourself offstage expresses who you are as an artist, what kind of energy you want to put into the world, and can make people listen to you before you've even opened your mouth! Artistic liberty is another area where drag queens excel. They fearlessly push boundaries, experiment with different styles, and refuse to conform to societal norms. Opera singers can embrace this same spirit by taking risks in their interpretations, infusing their performances with creativity and originality that leave audiences in awe. One basic principle applies to both art forms: make them remember you!! Confidence is the crown jewel of both drag queens and opera singers. As RuPaul famously says, "If you can't love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?" Confidence isn't just about believing in your talent; it's about owning who you are and letting your light shine bright on stage. One of my favorite things about Drag Race is that the quirky, "weird" queens are often the ones who go farthest on the show, like Crystal Methyd from Season 12! She was so unique and surprised the judges with a new facet of her weirdness every week. That kind of charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent (#IYKYK) is what makes audiences fall in love with a performer - AND gets you hired again! In the words of Mama Paul, "We're all born naked and the rest is drag." This quote from RuPaul reminds us that performance - whether it's opera, drag, or exotic dancing (if you're a stage performer in Germany, probably all three) - is about transformation and storytelling. It's about shedding inhibitions and embracing the power of self-expression. Sometimes in opera, we forget how much control we have over our artistic persona because the content of our performance is out of our control. But those brilliant dead guys already had their moment, so guess what? Now it's our turn! So, opera singers, take a page from the book of drag queens. In the words of Ms. Paul: "You better werk!" Embrace fashion as a form of artistic expression, dare to explore new realms of creativity, and above all, strut onto that stage with unapologetic confidence. Who knows? You might just discover a whole new dimension to your performances that leaves audiences begging for more. Good luck, and don't fuck it up! Taylor Dear Fellow Opera Singers,
In the grand symphony of life, we are the virtuosos, weaving tales of passion, tragedy, and triumph through the power of our voices. As opera singers, we embody the epitome of artistic expression, commanding stages with our presence and captivating audiences with each note. Yet, within you may lie a vast reservoir of untapped potential waiting to be unleashed. If you're reading this, then it might be time to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, to prove to yourself the heights you can reach as an artist. It begins with nurturing the instrument that is your body, honing it to function at its peak performance level. Just as a master violinist cares for their Stradivarius, you need to tend to your body with the utmost care and respect. I have always thought of my voice as an instrument I'm playing, rather than an extension of my persona. It helps me remain objective about my singing, and reminds me that even though I have worked for years at technical mastery, I have also been given a beautiful gift that deserves care. Feeding the artist within you requires a holistic approach. It starts with engaging in activities that elevate your physical well-being and enhance your vocal prowess. Incorporating cardio exercise not only strengthens your respiratory system but also invigorates your entire being, infusing you with boundless energy and stamina to command the stage with authority. Lisette Oropesa has openly talked about her massive 40-kilo weight loss at the beginning of her career, and attributes much of her success to running...which she turned to because it was free! Also extremely important to consider is the impact of your lifestyle choices on your vocal performance. Limiting or cutting out alcohol can do wonders for your vocal health, because it improves the clarity and flexibility of your voice, increases vocal stamina, and reduces inflammation of the vocal cords, thereby allowing you to perform with greater precision, endurance, and resilience every day. Opting for hydration and nourishing foods will not only support your overall health but also contribute to the vibrancy and resonance of your voice. When I stopped drinking alcohol consistently, I noticed an enormous difference in my singing within two weeks. In your quest for excellence, seek inspiration from those who have mastered the art of High Performance, which coincidentally is the name of a podcast I highly recommend: experts like Damian Hughes share invaluable insights on achieving peak performance in various domains. Let their wisdom ignite the fire within you and propel you towards greatness! You can't be performing at your highest level if you're not taking care of your body. Remember, the path to operatic mastery is not without its challenges and setbacks. But with perseverance, dedication, and a steadfast belief in your abilities, you can surmount any obstacle that stands in your way. Embrace the journey, trust in your talent, and never cease to strive for excellence. So, fellow opera singers, as you step onto the stage, know that you possess the power to move hearts, stir souls, and leave an indelible mark on the world through your artistry. Unleash your operatic potential, and let your voice soar to unimaginable heights! Cheers, Taylor Hey opera singers! Let's talk about voice teachers.
As an opera singer, your voice is your instrument, your most prized possession. It's the tool through which you convey emotion, captivate audiences, and tell stories that transcend time and culture. However, even the most gifted singers need guidance to hone their craft and reach their full potential. This is where the importance of choosing the right voice teacher cannot be overstated. First and foremost, consider cultural differences. Opera is a global art form, and what may work in one cultural context might not be as effective in another. Look for a teacher who understands and respects these nuances, someone who can tailor their approach to your specific background and needs. If you're in the U.S., this might not be as big a hurdle, as most teachers on that side of the pond are either American or live in the U.S. In Europe, it's not uncommon to meet teachers who are from a country other than the one they live in, and you also might be traveling to various countries and communicating with people of many different backgrounds. When I first moved to Italy, I studied with a wonderful teacher whom I truly enjoyed working with. But sometimes I would leave my lesson feeling like I had disappointed her, or frustrated because we had different ideas about how to achieve a certain sound. It took time for us to work out a language that worked for us, and I learned a lot about keeping an open mind when it comes to what the other person's motives or intentions might be. Price is another crucial factor. While quality education often comes with a price tag, it's essential to find a balance between affordability and value. Investing in your vocal training is an investment in your future as an artist (and you will continue investing in yourself throughout your career) - but from my personal experience, the high-priced conservatory is not always the best option, and definitely does not guarantee you any sort of status. Before enrolling in an expensive academic program, shop around for teachers, and don't be afraid of taking some time off to make sure that you find the right option for you. Next, evaluate the teacher's experience both as a singer and as an educator. A seasoned performer can offer invaluable insights gleaned from years on the stage, while a skilled educator knows how to impart knowledge effectively and nurture talent. A balance of both is, in my opinion, the best mixture. Furthermore, inquire about the teacher's current involvement in the industry and their connections to opera companies. A teacher who remains active in the field can provide up-to-date industry insights and may even facilitate performance opportunities for their students. Although your teacher is not your agent, until you HAVE an agent, it's best to have someone to help you get your name out there, if at all possible. Equally important is the teacher's track record of success. Ask for a list of previous and current students and research their accomplishments. Do they regularly perform at prestigious venues? Have they won awards or competitions? Such achievements are a testament to the teacher's effectiveness and can give you confidence in their ability to guide you towards your goals. Ultimately, choosing a voice teacher is a deeply personal decision. Take the time to research and interview potential instructors, trusting your instincts to find the right fit for your artistic journey. The right teacher can make all the difference in unlocking your full potential as an artist. Cheers, Taylor Hey there, fellow artists!
Let's talk about finding your artistic persona – you know, that unique style and voice that makes your work stand out in a crowd. It's like going on a treasure hunt for your creative soul, digging deep to uncover the real, unfiltered you in your art. Remember what Vincent van Gogh said? "I am seeking, I am striving, I am in it with all my heart." That guy knew what he was talking about (just disregard the crippling depression, mental hospital and the whole cutting-off-the-ear thing). Finding your artistic mojo means giving it your all, pouring your heart and soul into your work without holding back. For a long time, I heard successful artists talk about "having something to say." I always wondered what that meant as an opera singer, because...everything I say on stage isn't written by me! I have literally zero control over the text I sing. But eventually I realized how much I control I DO have over my character, the relationships to other characters, and what I want to teach the audience about being human. This is the whole point of being an artist, and I wish that my earliest mentors had focused more on helping me discover my heart and beliefs, and not just technical perfection, important as it is. I don't know about you, but I love Frida Kahlo, the queen of self-expression. She once said, "I am my own muse. I am the subject I know best. The subject I want to better." Basically, she's telling us to own our story, to dive deep into our own experiences and emotions, and let them shine through in our art. Being authentic in your art isn't about fitting in. It's about being true to yourself, flaws and all - and that person is constantly changing. E.E. Cummings nailed it when he said, "To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight." Preach, Cummings! Finding your artistic persona is a lifelong journey – one that's shaped by your experiences, influences, and inner growth. It's about taking risks, trusting your gut, and daring to be different. As Georgia O'Keeffe wisely put it, "To create one's world in any of the arts takes courage." So, don't be afraid to be bold, to be vulnerable, and to let your true colors shine. So, fellow creatives, let's embrace our uniqueness, celebrate our quirks, and unleash our creativity with gusto. Don't let who you were dictate who you are. Your artistic persona is out there, waiting to be discovered – so go ahead and show us what you're made of! Cheers, Taylor Hey there fellow opera singers,
Let's talk shop. In the world of opera, where every note holds a story and every performance is a journey, finding steady work can feel like trying to hit the high C on a Monday morning. These days, the job hunt is tougher than ever - especially in the good ol' U.S. of A. Recent stats paint a pretty bleak picture: only a handful of grads from music schools and conservatories in the States snag gigs in professional opera companies. Meanwhile, over in Germany, things seem a bit rosier, with more productions and government-funded opera houses providing better prospects. But hey, it's not all gloom and doom on the west side of the pond - there are options if you're willing to get a bit creative. Smaller, indie opera companies are popping up left and right, offering alternative avenues for performances. Those opportunities can be some of the most artistically interesting and fulfilling, since the road less traveled tends to allow for more room to play and discover. And let's not forget about collaborations – working with orchestras, choirs, and schools can be a goldmine for gigs and exposure. Now, for those just starting out with little to no experience, breaking into the biz can feel like trying to crash a fancy gala in sneakers. The key is to take every opportunity you can. Chorus roles, cover gigs – these are our bread and butter. They might not be glamorous, but they're stepping stones to bigger and better things. Plus, they give us a chance to strut our stuff and make connections in the industry. Think about your favorite film star; odds are, if you Google them, you'll find many unknown roles in the beginning of their career. Don't be fooled by the glamorous idea of overnight success: it's not real! And then there's the whole digital age thing. Social media and streaming platforms have opened up new doors for us, sure. But they've also made the competition fiercer than ever. Building a brand and marketing ourselves online is practically a full-time job these days. But hey, if it gets us noticed, it's worth the effort...right? Now, let's address the elephant in the room – why are there fewer job openings in opera these days? Well, for starters, funding cuts have hit many opera companies hard over the last few years. With budgets tightening, companies are scaling back on productions and, consequently, hiring fewer singers. Additionally, changes in audience demographics and preferences have led to shifts in programming, with some companies opting for more contemporary or experimental works that may require smaller casts. Lastly, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have left many opera companies struggling to recover, leading to further reductions in job opportunities as they navigate financial uncertainties and adapt to new safety protocols. So, fellow opera warriors, as we continue to navigate the ups and downs of the job market, let's remember to stay resilient, adaptable, and – above all – passionate. By supporting each other, seizing every opportunity that comes our way, and staying true to our art, we'll weather this storm and come out stronger on the other side. Here's to the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Cheers, Taylor |
AuthorTaylor is a spinto soprano who has performed a wide variety of repertoire. Originally from California, she now lives in Hamburg, Germany. ArchivesCategories |