6 Opera Singer Interview Questions and Answers

Introduction

This question is important because it assesses your ability to manage pressure and adapt to unexpected situations, which are crucial for a performing artist.

How to answer

• Choose a specific performance that had significant challenges, such as technical issues or personal obstacles.
• Explain the context of the performance and what went wrong.
• Describe the steps you took to address the challenges during the performance.
• Highlight the outcome of the situation and any positive feedback received.
• Reflect on what you learned from the experience and how it has influenced your approach to performance.

What not to say

• Avoid vague answers that lack specific details.
• Do not focus solely on negative aspects without discussing solutions.
• Refrain from blaming others or external circumstances for the challenges.
• Avoid appearing unprepared or overwhelmed by the situation.

Example answer

“During a performance of Carmen at the Opéra Bastille, I lost my voice just before the final act due to a severe allergy attack. I quickly adapted by using a modified vocal technique to ensure I could still deliver my lines. I communicated with the conductor and adjusted my staging to reduce vocal strain. The audience appreciated my commitment to the performance despite the circumstances, and I learned the importance of vocal health and flexibility in challenging situations.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your preparation process, dedication to your craft, and ability to embody a character, which are essential for any resident opera singer.

How to answer

• Outline your preparation steps, including research on the role and composer.
• Discuss your vocal warm-up and practice routines.
• Explain how you work with directors and fellow cast members during rehearsals.
• Describe your approach to character development and emotional connection to the role.
• Mention any techniques you use to maintain vocal health throughout the process.

What not to say

• Avoid generic responses that lack personalization.
• Do not neglect the importance of collaboration with the production team.
• Refrain from focusing only on the technical aspects of singing.
• Avoid discussing preparation methods that are not relevant to opera.

Example answer

“When preparing for my role as Violetta in La Traviata, I began by deeply researching the character's background and motivations. I worked closely with the director during rehearsals to ensure my interpretation aligned with their vision. I set a rigorous practice schedule, including vocal warm-ups and acting exercises, and I also consulted with a vocal coach for feedback on my performance. Throughout the process, I maintained my vocal health by staying hydrated and avoiding strain, which ultimately helped me deliver a powerful and emotive performance.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your ability to manage high-pressure situations and demonstrate resilience, which is essential for a professional opera singer.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method to structure your story
• Clearly describe the performance setting and the challenge faced
• Explain the specific actions you took to address the issue
• Discuss how you communicated with your colleagues or conductor during the challenge
• Reflect on what you learned from the experience and how it improved your performance skills

What not to say

• Focusing too much on the negative aspects without highlighting solutions
• Blaming others for the situation without taking personal responsibility
• Providing a vague answer without specific details or outcomes
• Failing to convey the emotional impact of the experience

Example answer

“During a performance of 'La Traviata' in Milan, I lost my voice due to a sudden cold. I communicated with the conductor and we adapted the performance by lowering my singing range for several arias. I also engaged with the audience through acting to maintain the performance's integrity. This taught me the importance of adaptability and communication in live performances.”

Introduction

This question assesses your preparation methods and commitment to character development, which are crucial for a successful opera singer.

How to answer

• Outline your research process for the character and the story
• Describe how you work on vocal techniques specific to the role
• Explain your collaboration with directors and other cast members
• Discuss any rehearsal strategies you use to embody the character
• Mention how you incorporate feedback into your preparation

What not to say

• Neglecting the importance of character research or vocal specifics
• Providing a one-size-fits-all approach without acknowledging role differences
• Failing to discuss collaboration with the production team
• Ignoring the necessity of rehearsals and practice

Example answer

“When preparing for the role of Don José in 'Carmen', I began by researching the character's background and motivations. I worked closely with the conductor to adapt my vocal techniques for the intense emotional demands of the role. I also attended rehearsals, collaborating with the director to enhance my portrayal through body language and interaction with other characters. This thorough preparation allowed me to deliver a compelling performance.”

Introduction

This question is important for evaluating your ability to cope with pressure and unexpected challenges, which are common in live performances.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method to structure your response (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
• Clearly describe the context of the performance and the specific challenges faced
• Detail your preparation and how you adapted during the performance
• Highlight any support from colleagues and how teamwork played a role
• Discuss the outcome and what you learned from the experience

What not to say

• Blaming external factors without taking personal responsibility
• Failing to mention specific actions taken to address the challenge
• Overlooking the collaborative aspect of performance
• Providing a vague answer without clear details or outcomes

Example answer

“During a production of 'La Traviata' in Beijing, I faced a sudden illness just hours before the performance. I communicated with the conductor and my fellow cast members about my condition. We decided to adjust some vocal parts to accommodate my voice. The performance went on, and I delivered a heartfelt interpretation, which was well received by the audience. This taught me the importance of adaptability and teamwork in live performances.”

Introduction

This question assesses your approach to preparation and character development, critical skills for a lead opera singer.

How to answer

• Explain your research process on the character and the opera's context
• Detail your vocal and physical preparation routines
• Discuss collaboration with directors and fellow performers
• Highlight any techniques you use for memorization and emotional connection
• Mention how you incorporate feedback into your preparation

What not to say

• Suggesting that preparation isn’t important or is overly simplistic
• Neglecting the importance of character analysis and emotional depth
• Focusing solely on vocal practice without mentioning acting aspects
• Failing to discuss collaboration with others involved in the production

Example answer

“When preparing for the role of Rodolfo in 'La Bohème', I researched the character's background and motivations extensively. I practiced vocal techniques daily while also engaging in acting workshops to understand his emotional journey better. Working closely with the director and my fellow cast members helped me refine my interpretation. This holistic preparation approach allowed me to create a more authentic and compelling performance.”

Introduction

This question helps assess your resilience, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability in high-pressure performance situations, which are crucial for a principal opera singer.

How to answer

• Start by detailing the specific performance and why it was challenging (e.g., vocal demands, emotional complexity, staging issues)
• Explain the steps you took to prepare and address these challenges, including any techniques or strategies used
• Discuss how you managed stress or pressure during the performance
• Highlight the outcome of the performance and any feedback received
• Reflect on what you learned from the experience and how it has influenced your approach to future performances

What not to say

• Avoid vague descriptions that don't specify the challenges faced
• Steering clear of blaming others for performance issues
• Neglecting to mention personal responsibility in overcoming obstacles
• Not discussing the learning outcomes or growth from the experience

Example answer

“During my performance of 'La Traviata' at the Cape Town Opera, I faced significant vocal strain due to the demanding arias. To overcome this, I focused heavily on my breathing techniques, consulted with a vocal coach, and even adjusted some of the phrasing to suit my voice better for that night. The performance turned out to be one of my most successful, receiving a standing ovation. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and proactive communication with my director and colleagues about my needs.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your preparation methods and artistic approach to embodying characters, which is essential for a principal opera singer.

How to answer

• Outline your initial research process about the character and the opera
• Discuss how you analyze the score and libretto for vocal interpretation
• Describe your approach to developing the character's backstory and emotional depth
• Mention any collaborations with directors or conductors that enhance your preparation
• Explain how you integrate feedback from rehearsals into your final performance

What not to say

• Claiming you rely solely on your instincts without preparation
• Ignoring the importance of collaboration with other artists
• Not mentioning any specific techniques or methods used
• Presenting a lack of personal investment in character development

Example answer

“When preparing for the role of Don Giovanni, I first immersed myself in the historical and psychological background of the character. I analyzed the score meticulously, focusing on how the music reflects his personality. Working closely with the director, I created a detailed character arc that informed my vocal interpretation. Feedback from my peers during rehearsals helped refine my portrayal, ensuring it resonated authentically with the audience. This comprehensive preparation method allows me to deliver a deeply engaging performance.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your resilience and adaptability as a performer, which are crucial traits for an opera singer in high-pressure situations.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method to structure your response (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
• Clearly explain the context of the performance and the specific challenges faced
• Detail the steps you took to prepare and overcome those challenges
• Share the outcome of the performance and any feedback received
• Reflect on what you learned from the experience and how it has shaped your growth as a singer

What not to say

• Minimizing the challenges faced or avoiding a detailed explanation
• Focusing solely on the technical aspects without discussing emotional or personal growth
• Failing to mention how you prepared or the steps taken to improve
• Not discussing the impact of the experience on your future performances

Example answer

“During a performance at the Teatro Real in Madrid, I lost my voice unexpectedly due to allergies. Instead of panicking, I quickly consulted with the stage manager and decided to adapt. I used a lower range for the performance and relied on acting to convey emotion. The audience was very supportive, and I received positive feedback for my adaptability. This taught me the importance of mental resilience and thinking on my feet during critical moments.”

Introduction

This question assesses your preparation techniques, both vocal and emotional, which are vital for delivering a compelling performance.

How to answer

• Describe your vocal warm-up routines and practice techniques
• Explain how you analyze the character and the emotional depth required for the role
• Detail any physical or mental exercises you use to prepare yourself emotionally
• Discuss how you incorporate feedback from coaches or conductors into your preparation
• Mention the importance of rest and self-care leading up to the performance

What not to say

• Providing vague answers about preparation without specific techniques
• Neglecting the emotional aspect of performing
• Suggesting that preparation is not necessary for successful performances
• Failing to mention the role of collaboration with other artists or coaches

Example answer

“For my role in 'Carmen,' I followed a strict regimen that included vocal exercises focused on breath control and resonance. I spent time delving into the character's backstory, journaling about her motives and emotions. I also practiced visualization techniques to embody her spirit fully. Collaborating with my vocal coach, I refined my interpretation, ensuring I could convey both strength and vulnerability. I ensure I get plenty of rest, as well, to keep my voice and mind fresh for the performance.”