Gregory Hanson
Tenor
Wenham, Mass.
Please tell our readers about your career highlights so far.
I would definitely say being Parpignol in a production of La bohème last fall. The children’s chorus was a delight to work with and they all called me “Mr. Parpignol.”
What are your goals for the next five years? The next 10 years?
As a computer scientist and technical manager, I hope to have established my own technical consulting business in the next five years in order to concentrate more fully on my opera career. Within 10 years I hope to be an established opera singer in New England and moving towards larger houses across the country.
What is your dream role, and why?
Rodolfo, hands down. La bohème is my favorite opera. Besides, what tenor doesn’t aspire to sing “Che gelida manina” at the Met?
When you turn on the radio what do you listen to?
[I listen to] 93.7 Mike FM—everything from oldies to pop.
Who is your mentor, or the most influential person in your life as a singer?
My voice teacher, basso Craig Hart.
Who is your favorite singer and why?
Franco Corelli. He had the biggest voice I have ever heard and did not sacrifice any control or beauty. I consider him my “grandfather” teacher as he worked closely with Jerome Hines, who was my voice teacher’s mentor.
How do you handle the inevitable rejection that is part of a singer’s life?
Well, luckily I have been blessed to be a tenor. I know that for every role I get rejected from, there are two more companies hunting for a tenor. When the rejection gets too great however, my fiancée is always there to give me a hug. I also understand that God has a plan for my life. He gave me the gift of singing and I know he will lead me to where I am supposed to be.
How do you balance career and family?
My loving fiancée has already agreed that if we need to move around for me to sing opera, then that is what we are going to do. She is the greatest thing that has ever happened to me as a person and a singer.
What is your favorite techno tool you use as a singer?
As a person who spent his undergrad getting a computer science degree, I would have to say my favorite tech
tool is my digital video camera. I can record any performances I do. That way I can analyze my sound for technique and myself for acting and stage presence. It is also useful for catching backstage antics.
