Stephanie Dailey
Soprano
Liberty, Mo.
Please tell our readers about your career highlights so far.
Veteran’s Day soloist, Pippin, Suor Angelica, The Impresario, The Consul.
What are your goals for the next five years? The next 10 years?
My goal in the next five years is to obtain my master’s degree and study in a few Young Artist Programs. In 10 years, I hope to be in demand both as a soloist in recital as well as an international performer.
What do you listen to when you turn on the radio?
Everything from Baroque to modern mixes.
Who are some of your role models, mentors, or influential people in your life?
Dr. Arnold Epley.
What is your dream role, and why?
My dream role is Carmen. I love the sassy, Spanish flair. The woman has so many different levels to her psyche that analyzing her alone is incredibly fascinating and mentally stimulating. Acting out such full characters allows for a deeper artistic interpretation.
How do you handle the inevitable rejection that is part of a singer’s life?
I think of the audition from a director’s standpoint. They have to find the person that fits their idea of the character. Just because a person doesn’t match up with one interpretation of one production does not signify inept talent. Why get upset? Focus on tomorrow.
How do you balance career and family?
My family, while entirely unmusical, is graciously understanding. I often do not get to spend much time at home due to studying, but my mom loves to be my travel buddy when I have out of town auditions.
What is your favorite article you’ve read in Classical Singer, and why?
How could I chose just one? I love reading interviews with singers of our time. Hearing other people’s stories inspires me.
Who is your favorite singer and why?
Jay Carter. He encourages me to express the music instead of trying to imitate predetermined—and plausibly misinformed—interpretations of style.
What is your favorite techno tool you use as a singer?
I love looking up my repertoire on YouTube to see what other people have done with the music.
Do you have a motto by which you live?
“Why not?”
Anything else you’d like to say during your moment in Center Stage?
Hubris is detrimental to improvement.
