Remember that old saying, “How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice…” Since I’ve already told you to get in that practice room and do work; now I’m really telling you to go to the Met. By that, I mean, go to a Met broadcast or go see LA Opera or Chicago Lyric. Your day 19 challenge is to go see the best of the best and take notes.
Last weekend, I told you to go to a local performance and meet the people in charge. This challenge is a little different. I doubt that you will be able to waltz in to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and meet the big stars. However, it is important for young artists to see what is happening at the top of the game.
Observing those that are considered our most iconic opera singers is a great learning tool for younger singers. Take notes whenever you see something that touches you. Study what the leads are doing that you can try to incorporate (or not) into your stage presence.
There is a long spectrum of talent and ability in the opera world. It will serve you well to monitor and scrutinize what the superstars are doing. You will also begin to recognize the trends in the opera world and be more aware of how you can utilize those trends to your advantage.
