Reflections

It seems that this being an opera singer thing leads to a somewhat boring, recluse of a life. But before you think I am seemingly ungrateful for my talent, think again. I have finally (it's taken a long time) come to terms with the fact that to do what I love means having to sacrifice going out, hanging a lot with friends, and most of all drinking... It may even mean having to sacrifice spending time looking for relationships (since I don't do the online thing).

Now, before you say that not all opera singers have to live this way, stop! I have found that I do. My instrument is not ridiculously fragile, but it's fragile enough that I need to take care of it and also need to stay healthy, both physically, vocally and mentally. This may all be extremely boring to you all, but it is a revelation to me, particularly since I'm only now making it priority. Since I've REALLY made this change, everything feels stronger. Yes, my voice gets tired after the choral gigs that I do to make extra money, but now I can at least practice the next day instead of feeling as if I won't ever sing again (dramatic, but that's sometimes how I feel).

However, that doesn't mean I have to curtail all interesting activities. In fact, I visited a new restaurant the other night in the interest of prospecting for my day job. Il Buco - expensive, but utterly delicious. And with a beautiful atmosphere. Gorgeously prepared food - clean, simple flavors with interesting additions. I would be happy to come back any day. In fact, I will this Wednesday. Oh, and they have a gorgeous wine list - mostly Italian.
Ah, but I could go on...this month means a lot of nose to the grindstone: a sing-thru of Le Nozze di Figaro for brush-up purposes (one if my faves), a couple choral gigs, learning music for my recital and most of all, learning the role of Ellen Orford. All daunting, but utterly attainable tasks.