I have always loved change, in all of its forms—a change in the air with the coming fall, the liberating feeling of a fresh change of clothes, or the jingling sounds of change in my pocket. Like many Americans, however, during this seemingly never-ending presidential race the endless rhetoric of change from both sides of the aisle have left me wishing someone would please change the subject.
So as the presidential race nears its longed-for end (finally!), take respite from the political rhetoric and enjoy a more promising message of change in this month’s Classical Singer.
A Change of Heart
Faced with the realities of her own poor health, longtime Classical Singer columnist Cindy Sadler decided that something had to change. She won’t tell you she went on a diet, she’ll tell you she started a new way of life. Cindy knew that changing only outward behaviors wouldn’t be enough, so she focused first on changing her inward desires, thought patterns, and emotions. This led to healthy eating, avid exercise, and a remarkable 112-pound weight loss. See the pictures and read her inspiring story.
A Job Change
Eric Dillner recently changed jobs, leaving a successful tenure at Shreveport Opera to begin a new adventure at the Skylight Opera in Wisconsin. Eric’s most dramatic job change happened in his 20s, however, when he decided to leave behind a budding solo career to do what he really loved: create opera from behind the scenes. Eric shares his story and his advice for singers considering a similar path.
Change Your Tune
Stage fright is a painful reality for many singers, holding them back from the great performances of which they know they are capable. In this issue, Jon Skidmore shares some surefire exercises to help you change the negative thought patterns that lead to performance anxiety.
Look Fabulous, for a Change
For CS’s second annual Audition Contest we asked three general directors to evaluate this year’s finalists. See the outfits they picked as winners, and read their advice for making a great first impression at every audition.
Don’t End Up Shortchanged
Healthcare insurance is not something many singers like to talk about. Self-employed individuals, like most artists, often end up holding the short end of the healthcare stick. The healthcare system may not change anytime soon, but singers can find viable options. Read how you can change your own situation within the current system.
Whether you lean towards the left or the right, whether you have been inspired or disgusted this political season, or fear that the more things change in Washington the worse they become (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, for example), may this issue inspire you to change the things you can change: your life and your career.
