Opera and Singing - Coursework Example

In this interview conducted by Terry Gross of Fresh Air, Dolora Zajick gives an insight into her opera career and how it began. Zajick is the director of the Institute of Young Dramatic Voices which focuses on usual voices.  This is an informative interview, especially for upcoming opera singers still learning their trades. She offers insights into how it feels to sing opera and the secrets to a successful career in opera singing and generally in music. I have learned three main ideas from the interview that have helped me understand what singing opera is about and how to become a successful opera singer.

First, it is important to learn to concentrate on what is happening at the moment in order to bring the best out of yourself. Zajick says that signing is connected to the body, and most of the expressions come from a form of kinesthetic awareness. Therefore, it is important to focus on what you are doing at the time and concretely. Secondly, Zajick has highlighted the importance of relaxation. To be a good singer, one needs to relax. The best way to achieve this is by letting things go. You don’t have to do many things at a time but instead, figure out what you want to do and isolate it from other things. Exercise on what you need to use. Finally, in the interview, Zajick also explained how important it is for artists to take care of themselves. For example, a good singer should not let minor health issues such as colds interfere with his/her singing. She, for instance, sleeps on her stomach in order to maintain her vocals. Therefore, understanding and taking good care of one’s body is important.