Date sent: Mon, 24 Jan 2000 18:10:32 EST
Subject: Re: Un bel di questions
To: vocalist
Send reply to: VOCALIST <vocalist>


In a message dated 1/24/00 3:15:23 AM, soprano-at-telus.net writes:

<< Also, how big a voice do you need to sing this aria? I am a lyric soprano,
and while I wouldn't necessarily take on the whole role, the orchestration
in this aria isn't such that you need an overpoweringly huge dramatic voice
to be heard (especially when doing with piano). But I got quite the shocked
reaction about how "big" it was when I announced what I was singing (very
intimidating reaction to get right before singing!). My voice teacher thinks
it is appropriate for my voice - what is the usual requirement for size? >>

Who was shocked? Were you singing it for an audition? If so, it was probably
not the best choice for a true lyric.

If you audition with an aria from Butterfly, you are telling the auditors
that you are confident of your ability to sing the entire role with orchestra.

Although Un bel di may be perfectly comfortable to sing in a small room with
piano accompaniment, it is quite another animal in an auditorium with orchestr
a.

Sounds to me as though you should consider choosing another aria. Some
Mozart, perhaps?

Judy
A "big lyric" who doesn't sing Butterfly except in the shower!