Vocal Studies

1. You’re preparing a full opera role. How do you approach it?

Study the score and libretto in depth, research the historical context, work with a vocal coach and build the character. Learn the notes and follow what the director tells me. A whole role sounds like too much work.

2. You need to plan a solo recital programme. What guides your choices?

A clear artistic concept, contrasting styles and a well-paced order that shows my voice at its best. I just pick my favourite pieces. I let my teacher decide.

3. An important audition for an opera studio or ensemble is coming up. How do you prepare?

Put together a varied list of arias, practise singing under pressure and find out what the panel expects. Sing what I know best and hope for the best. I avoid auditions whenever I can.

4. A conductor asks for a tempo and phrasing quite different from your own idea. What do you do?

Adapt professionally, and discuss my interpretive choices respectfully when there’s a good moment. Go along with it, but reluctantly. Insist on doing it my way.

5. How well do you know your voice type and the repertoire that suits it?

Very well – I plan my repertoire so my voice develops healthily over the years. Roughly – I haven’t thought about it in much detail. I’ve never really thought about it.

6. Coaching, masterclasses and rehearsals are in English, with singers trained in different vocal schools around the world. How do you see that?

As a great opportunity – I’m happy to work in English and compare different approaches to technique and interpretation. As a challenge – I understand most things, but discussing artistic nuances in English is harder. I’d rather study in my own language, with people from my own country.

7. Would you be interested in teaching younger singers and learning about the physiology of the voice?

Yes – I find vocal pedagogy fascinating and would love to pass my knowledge on. Maybe one day, but not now. No, I only want to perform.

8. A singing career also involves recordings, competitions, agents and an online presence. How do you approach that?

I see myself as a professional artist and plan these things actively. I hope it will all just fall into place. I only want to sing – the rest doesn’t interest me.

9. You’re invited to perform contemporary music or early music using historical performance practice. How do you react?

With curiosity – I want to broaden my range and my sense of style. I’d do it if it were required. I’d rather stick to the standard repertoire.

10. What motivates you most to pursue a Master’s degree in Vocal Studies?

The chance to refine my voice and artistry to a professional level and build a career on the concert and opera stage. The wish to keep improving my singing. I’m not sure it’s for me