In this episode of the OperaBiz Podcast, host Daniel Welch speaks with soprano Jasmine Habersham about her experiences in "The Listeners" with the Lyric Opera of Chicago through her character's lens. They also discuss the contrast between performing new works and standard canon, and the importance of mental health in the arts. Jasmine shares insights on finding authenticity in performance, the significance of having a supportive team, and the do's and don'ts for aspiring artists. The conversation also touches on Jasmine's career highlights and her upcoming projects.

Special Guest: Jasmine Habersham.

In this episode of the OperaBiz podcast, Daniel Welch and mezzo-soprano Samantha Hankey discuss the complexities of balancing a demanding opera career with personal wellbeing. They explore the evolution of their careers, the challenges of learning multiple roles, the importance of language in performance, and the dynamics of live theater. The conversation also delves into mental health, the necessity of taking breaks, and the joys and challenges of traveling as an artist. In this engaging conversation, Daniel and Samantha share insights on travel essentials, self-care, and the nuances of being an opera singer. They discuss the importance of trusting one's instincts in performance, and memorable moments in her opera career.

Takeaways

• Mental health is a significant concern for artists in high-pressure environments.
• Taking breaks is essential for maintaining performance quality.
• Physical health impacts artistic performance and mental clarity.
• Routine and consistency are vital for artists on the road.
• The opera industry requires juggling multiple roles and responsibilities.
• Learning roles back-to-back can be a trial by fire experience.
• Preparation is crucial for performers to avoid anxiety.
• Language proficiency enhances performance and connection with colleagues.
• Artists owe it to their audience to deliver authentic performances.
• Self-care is crucial for artists to perform well.
• Avoid giving unsolicited advice to colleagues.
• Trust your instincts when choosing repertoire.
• Traveling day of a performance can be detrimental.
• Memorable moments in opera often extend beyond the stage.
• Some roles come with high expectations.
• Authenticity in performance can redefine iconic roles.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Opera Biz Podcast
03:02 The Evolution of Careers in Opera
05:47 The Challenges of Learning Multiple Roles
09:12 The Importance of Language in Performance
12:00 Navigating Live Theater Dynamics
15:05 Mental Health and Artist Wellbeing
22:04 Finding Balance in a Demanding Career
30:00 The Joys and Challenges of Travel as an Artist
34:13 Culinary Discoveries and Travel Essentials
36:07 Do's and Don'ts for Opera Singers
42:16 Trusting Your Instincts in Performance
49:47 Self-Care and Travel Tips for Performers
52:44 Memorable Moments in the Opera Career
58:55 Upcoming Performances and Role Preparation

Special Guest: Samantha Hankey.

Summary

In this episode of the OperaBiz Podcast, Daniel Welch and Melanie Bacaling delve into the intricacies of opera directing, what the different roles entail, interactions and workflow with the performers, and the importance of intimacy coordinators in creating a safe and empowering environment for performers. Melanie also shares her knowledge about working behind the scenes are The Metropolitan Opera - what makes it a unique and most notable company for opera in the United States.

Takeaways

• Opera found me first, directing came second.
• Assistant directing in opera is very stage management oriented.
• The Met's workflow is unlike any other house.
• Preparation is crucial for performers in opera.
• Covering roles requires readiness and adaptability.
• Directing at the Met involves a large team of assistants.
• The challenges of opera time require patience from audiences.
• Opera can be a meditative art form in a fast-paced world. The magic of opera lies in its ability to expand time for audiences.
• Directing opera presents unique challenges, especially regarding time constraints.
• Intimacy coordinators are becoming essential in opera to ensure safety and comfort.
• Consent is crucial in performance art, impacting both romantic and intense scenes.
• Directors should have a clear artistic mission to guide their choices.
• Giving oneself permission to fail is vital for artistic growth.
• Avoiding comparison with others fosters a healthier artistic community.
• Freelancers must manage their own benefits and career paths effectively.
• Community support is invaluable in the arts, celebrating each other's successes.
• Personal milestones in one's career can be deeply fulfilling and affirming.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Opera Directing and Its Challenges
02:50 The Role of Assistant and Associate Directors
05:59 The Unique Workflow at the Met
08:50 The Importance of Preparation in Opera
12:11 Covering Roles and the Pressure of Performance
14:50 Comparing Directing at the Met to Other Houses
18:00 The Art of Directing Opera: Challenges and Insights
29:07 The Magic of Opera's Time Expansion
30:34 Challenges in Opera Direction
32:28 The Role of Intimacy Coordinators in Opera
39:37 The Importance of Consent in Performance
43:42 Do's and Don'ts for Aspiring Directors
51:33 Celebrating Community and Personal Milestones

Special Guest: Melanie Bacaling.

In this episode of the OperaBiz Podcast, host Daniel Welch talks with soprano Leah Hawkins about her journey in the opera world, focusing on themes of identity, mental health, and the challenges faced by artists. Leah shares her experiences with audience engagement, memorable performances, and the importance of taking time off to maintain mental well-being. The conversation also touches on the significance of personal interests outside of opera and covers Leah's upcoming performances and advice for aspiring artists.

Takeaways

• Leah emphasizes the importance of starting a season on one's own terms.
• Artists often face identity crises due to external expectations and labels.
• Taking time off is crucial for mental health and productivity.
• The opera industry needs to normalize breaks to prevent burnout.
• Audience engagement is vital for the future of opera.
• Memorable performances can leave lasting impacts on artists.
• Challenges in the opera industry often stem from lack of support and feedback.
• Successful artists tend to be the kindest and most supportive.
• It's important for artists to have interests outside of their craft.
• Learning roles in advance can prepare artists for unexpected opportunities.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Opera Biz Podcast
01:00 Finding Identity in Music
03:52 Mental Health and Artist Well-being
09:14 The Journey into Opera
12:57 Audience Engagement and Opera's Future
16:46 Memorable Performance Moments
23:21 Challenges in the Opera Industry
32:48 Do's and Don'ts for Professional Artists
38:05 Personal Interests Beyond Opera
40:29 Upcoming Performances and Future Plans

Special Guest: Leah Hawkins.

Summary

In this episode of the Opera Biz Podcast, Daniel Welch speaks with Alex Fletcher of [Fletcher Artist Management](www.fletcherartistmanagement.com) about the intricacies of artist management in the opera industry. They discuss the evolution of management practices, the importance of a holistic approach to artist well-being, and the role of social media in promoting artists. The conversation also touches on the challenges artists face during career lulls, the significance of dual market strategies, and the pressing need for mental health awareness in the opera community.

Takeaways

• Management is not just about securing gigs; it's about understanding the artist's life.
• Artists should be transparent about their career goals and personal circumstances.
• Social media is a powerful tool for visibility and marketing in the opera industry.
• A holistic approach to management considers both personal and professional well-being.
• Artists need to be proactive in their careers, even during lulls.
• Dual market strategies can enhance opportunities for emerging artists.
• Mental health support is crucial in the high-pressure environment of opera.
• Transparency in management relationships fosters trust and collaboration.
• Artists should express their authentic selves on social media.
• The opera industry is evolving, and so must the approaches to management and artist support.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Opera Biz Podcast
01:08 The Journey into Opera Management
03:48 The Evolution of Artist Management
07:26 A Holistic Approach to Artist Management
10:09 Navigating Hard Conversations with Artists
15:09 When to Seek Management
18:20 The Importance of Online Presence
21:08 The Importance of Authenticity and Presence
22:31 Navigating Social Media for Artists
23:07 Mentorship and Community in the Arts
24:36 Expectations for Artists in Management
27:46 Handling Career Lulls and Visibility
31:36 The Dual Market Approach for Artists
34:50 Collaboration Over Competition in Management
37:05 Mental Health Awareness in the Opera Industry

Special Guest: Alex Fletcher.

Fresh off the Met's production of FIRE SHUT UP IN MY BONES, Will Liverman sits down to chat about the significance of this opera, and takes us behind the scenes of embodying the dynamic role of a living public figure, and how to create opportunity in the industry.

We discuss how the role was tailored to him, what that process was like, and a glimpse behind the curtain.

A cross-genre musician, Will also talks about other genres, favorite artists, and what feeds him musically.

Special Guest: Will Liverman.

Lee Anne sits down for a realistic discussion about rolling with Covid protocol punches and 21st-century trends in opera auditions. She's heard over 10,000 auditions and she offer great insight to all those making a first impression, even in digital auditions. From self-producing to saving auditions that go awry, this is a must-listen for young artists!

Special Guest: Lee Anne Myslewski, Vice President, WOLF TRAP Opera and Classical Programming.

Soprano Jennifer Rowley talks about mainstage auditions, European auditions, and honing your audition offerings for more successful auditions. She defines "contrasting arias" for the working professional and walks us through what it's like to audition for a mainstage role. It's a must-listen for this audition season and the perfect way to kick off the return of the OperaBiz Podcast!

Special Guest: Jennifer Rowley.

Jump into a conversation with Ana De Archuleta, where we discuss approaching managers, making statements in auditions, and the de-stigmatization of the "Slash" (side gig/day job) that is a necessity for young and emerging singers in the industry today.

Special Guest: Ana De Archuleta - Pres. & CEO of ADA Artists.

J. Patrick Raftery and I sit down for a casual conversation while working together at Taos Opera Institute, June 2019. He shares insights about the ever-changing industry, his transition from baritone to tenor, and anecdotes from his 4 decades in opera.

J'Nai Bridges sits down for an informal discussion after her first day working at the Met on Akhnaten. We talk modern singer life, the legacy of Jessye Norman, and long-needed changes in the opera industry.

A bit more casual than the usual episode, J'Nai and Daniel hang out outside the Met for a real chat about where she's been, how she got here, and where we're all going.

Special Guest: J'Nai Bridges.

Making her Metropolitan Opera conducting debut this season, Karen Kamensek sits down to discuss her road to conducting, her collaboration with Philip Glass, and a largely European career. She shares her insights on Glass' music as well as a fresh perspective on life on the podium.

For more info, visit her at www.karenkamensek.com

Special Guest: Karen Kamensek, Conductor.

At the Met this season for Porgy and Bess as Sportin' Life, Frederick Ballentine talks about playing the villain, on-stage community, and his advice for young singers.

Special Guest: Frederick Ballentine.

Sidney discusses the life of a modern singer, the joys of teaching, and his journey from seeing his first opera to a life on stage. Recorded March, 2019.

Special Guest: Sidney Outlaw.

Kicking off Season 2 of the OperaBiz podcast: PR guru Andrew Ousley joins the conversation for an informative talk about the state of social media for singers, what a PR firm actually does in classical music, and where he thinks this corner of the industry is going.

From analytics to trends to what gets you noticed, Andrew has some great insight for singers at any level of their profession.

Special Guest: Andrew Ousley.

From MT to opera, off to Broadway and TV, and now back on the opera stage again, Zachary James brings a unique and fresh perspective on the opera industry.

Special Guest: Zachary James.

Susanna Phillips, soprano, known to most MetOpera fans as Musetta in La Bohème (11 consecutive seasons). We talk about the process of preparing a role, favorite roles, and when it's time to retire a role and move on to others.

Special Guest: Susanna Phillips.

Peter Szep comes on to talk about what's happening in the NYC opera scene, chat about new works and premiers during NY OperaFest 2019, and the great collaboration of opera.

Special Guest: Peter Szep.

Lila Palmer, librettist, comes on to discuss the side of the industry many people take for granted: the text. From creating new works, to collaborative efforts, to crafting a story, Lila brings a unique perspective to the world of opera.

Special Guest: Lila Palmer.

Conductor Timothy Myers (Santa Fe, HGO, Washington National Opera, MNOp, et al.) sits down to discuss working on world premiers, the collaborative effort of opera, and taking the road less traveled to a career. Recorded at Minnesota Opera, one day before the world premier of The Fix.

Special Guest: Timothy Myers.