Vocalist.org archive


From:  Mezzoid@a...
Date:  Thu Sep 21, 2000  7:34 pm
Subject:  Re: [vocalist-temporary] singing in ensemble


In a message dated 09/21/2000 1:22:34 PM Central Daylight Time,
omigurt@s... writes:

<< Hear, hear! Another practical point: singing in professional choral
situations is a good way to make the rent when you're out of school and
between solo jobs. (Things they don't necessarily teach you in
conservatory...) >>

And I found myself at a major disadvantage when I moved out to DC in '87. I
had ONLY done opera choruses and got out there and hit the audition trail. I
found singing in "real" choruses a completely different ball game. My
sightreading skills and blending ability simply weren't there at first, which
limited my employment. (And even if choral singing isn't your long-term
career goal, if I have a choice between typing between solo jobs and singing
in a chorus, dang if I won't take the choral work! At least it's making a
living in your field ... or at least contributing to your living.)

As far as making a living, choral singing isn't in my top 3 favorite things
to do (those would be opera, teaching, concert work), but it helps pay the
bills. And being a section leader has gotten me concert work and exposed me
to literature with which I'd be unfamiliar otherwise!



Christine Thomas, Mezzo Soprano
Wauwatosa, WI

"Humility is the acceptance of the possibility that someone else can teach
you something else you do not know already, especially about yourself.
Conversely, pride and arrogance close the door of the mind."
-- Arthur Deikman, The Observing Self

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