Continuing Welsh National Opera’s long-standing partnership with the National Opera Studio, this week we welcome the latest influx of singers from their Young Artists’ Programme. This week-long residency culminates in a not-to-be-missed showcase at the beautiful Donald Gordon Theatre within Wales Millennium Centre, under the accompaniment of WNO Orchestra. Grab a cup of tea and take 2 minutes out of your day to get to know National Opera Studio Young Artist, Su Chong.
How did you discover your passion for opera?
My love for opera was born out of a period of my life where I felt completely lost. After completing a bachelor's in Music Performance, I took a break to try and find a new connection to music. When I returned to university to do a post graduate degree in Accompaniment, I began working with singers and instantly felt a connection. Over the next few years, I found myself learning more about music from working with vocalists, than ever before. I became intoxicated with the idea of theatre through text and high emotion. I’ve been obsessed ever since.
What does a typical day at the Studio look like?
Each day brings a new adventure. Starting at 10:30 we have guests coaches and new repertoire to work on. There are some days that feel totally jam packed with coaching and rehearsals and other days feel a little lighter, when we can focus on preparing our own repertoire for auditions or studying scores and languages.
During your time at NOS, you take part in several residencies. How do they help you prepare for your career?
Our residencies at the various opera companies around the UK are immensely helpful, not only for the connections that we make but the sheer amount of information and wisdom we gain access from the music staff. Having opportunities to learn from such a high standard of artistry is instrumental in our development as young artists. It is also an immense privilege.
What advice would you give an aspiring repetiteur?
Throw yourself into everything. Being a repetiteur can be so much fun, but it’s even better if you figure out what you really like about it. ! There are so many facets to being a rep that take time to hone so make sure you enjoy the progress along the way.
Why should people come and experience Deception & Desire?
The glorious music. This concert has it all, from the genius of Mozart, cheek of Rossini, the love of Puccini and drama of Verdi. Our incredible singers embody each character and will deliver a rollercoaster of emotion.
If you didn’t follow a career in music, what would you be doing?
I can’t imagine a career outside of music. If I didn’t play an instrument, I would still want to be involved in the arts. Education, administration, or production would be interesting to explore. However, if music were not an option, I would explore psychology or working with animals.