What have your career highlights been, so far?
I’ve been fortunate enough as a very young baritone to learn and sing many roles during my studies. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity, at such a young age, to start discovering some of the greatest characters ever written.
How do you handle the inevitable rejection that is part of a singer’s life?
I usually am upset at first, but then I realize that it simply wasn’t meant to be. It’s a tough career and I’m definitely learning to build a strong backbone. I think the important part is actually learning from the audition process. It can be very exciting.
What are your goals for the next five years? The next 10 years?
In five years, I would like to continue to refine and polish my technique, become fluent in Italian, and participate in several Young Artist Programs and summer programs. In 10 years, I would like to begin to have a solid career on the operatic stage.
When you turn on the radio, what do you listen to?
Any oldies station I can find. I love oldies!
Who is your mentor, or the most influential person in your life as a singer?
My current voice teacher, David Okerlund.
What is your dream role and why?
I would love to sing the role of Stanley Kowalski in Andre Previn’s A Streetcar Named Desire. This was the first opera I ever saw, and I was so moved that I decided I wanted to pursue a career in opera. I think the music is brilliant. I love Tennessee Williams, and Stanley gets to smoke and take his shirt off. What more could an opera singer ask for?
How do you balance career and family?
Balance is something I’m forever working on. I speak with my parents at least once a week, and I visit home when I can. My parents are my biggest fans, and as I get older that fact becomes more and more important to me.
What is your favorite article you’ve read in Classical Singer, and why?
It’s difficult to narrow down my favorite article, but my favorite issue was the one devoted to depression and mental illness [March, 1999]. I was so touched that people were coming out and talking about all of this. I think it definitely affects singers. I have had major battles with depression, so this was an important issue for me.
Who is your favorite singer?
Thomas Hampson. He has such a gorgeous color in his voice, and there is such ease and artistry that is present when he sings.
What is your favorite techno tool you use as a singer?
Unfortunately, I’m not technologically advanced, but I do enjoy being able to put all of my opera onto my iPod and take it wherever I go.
Do you have a motto by which you live?
“Stop worrying where you’re going—move on!” from Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park With George.
