Tuesday, Nov 11, 2008 2:22AM /
Standard Entry
/ Members only
Friday, Nov 7, 2008 5:17AM /
Standard Entry
/ Members only
One of my beloved voice teachers passed away this week. And I regret to say that I did not see her one last time because I was not properly informed of the severity of her illness.
As a singer, your instrument is confined within your body, which is the beauty and the curse of this art form. I thought I had made the biggest mistake of my life when I decided to study with Norma. She was unlike any voice teacher I've ever had - stiff, stern and serious. I was even intimidated by her perfectly decorated Upper West Side apartment. And I loathed her studio pianist.
But, Norma opened my eyes to a new realm of discipline and possibilities. She showed me the tools, the manual and the shoes (How to Glide on Cobble Stone Streets With Four Inch Wedges) to achieve my dream. If any of you out there who were blessed to cross paths with her, I'm sure you share the same enthusiasm for her as I do.
Norma, thank you for generously sharing your wisdom, insight and patience. For listening to me sing poorly when I was ill prepared, and for smiling when I finally got it right. For always telling me the truth without sugar coating, and for telling me the truth without being cruel. For trying to make me a better singer, and above all, for making me want to be a better singer. You were a captivating artist and an inspiring teacher. I will think of you fondly and often.
1 comment– Add a comment
Friday, Oct 24, 2008 2:42PM /
Standard Entry
/ Members only
I was out to lunch for a while, but I'm back now! During this time, I sang a Voice from Heaven in Verdi's Don Carlo with Opera Hong Kong. The role is small, but appropriate for my voice. Warren Mok, artistic director of OHK has always looked out for me. Thanks to him I sang my first major role in Werther. My experience in Don Carlo was a fantastic one! I got to work with so many world class singers and observe their artistry.
Then I sang my first cabaret - which was so much fun! I wanted to do a concert for my friends and family who've come out to support me in my opera endeavors even though they don't like opera at all. I chose some songs that've influenced and shaped me as an artist. It looks like everyone had a good time, and I'm in the works of planning another!
My most recent performance is singing Belle in Beauty and the Beast with Hong Kong Singers. It was an interesting journey to say the least, but I do try to keep my nose out of management bs. Plus, it's about time I sang something fun in a theater. Thank you to everyone who came out and I'm really really happy that you all enjoyed it - that means I did my job.
2 comments– Add a comment
Tuesday, Aug 12, 2008 7:32AM /
Standard Entry
/ Members only
Hello everyone! I'm an opera singer who recently relocated back to HK from New York City. I know a lot of you don't understand opera, but that's what I'm here for. I hope you'll learn about opera through my blog and make it out to one of my performances!
Ciao!
1 comment– Add a comment
