I will never forget it, sitting in the huge outdoor arena in Modena, Italy, as one of thousands watching and listening to the Three Tenors in concert. I had to watch the concert on the giant JumboTrons (every seat was a “nose bleeder”), and listen to the voices projected over the sound system, but some 10-plus years later, the memories remain.
I remember writing home my review of the concert. Domingo was the better communicator, but no one could ever match the amazingly beautiful timbre of Pavarotti’s voice. Whether over speakers in an arena or in my living room, I could listen to that voice forever.
In recent months we have seen the passing of too many industry greats. Many of these have received tributes and been paid homage, but none to the global extent of “the most famous opera singer of the current age” (NPR). Just two days after his death, Luciano Pavarotti’s “Nessun Dorma” jumped from No. 160 to No. 24 on the British singles chart.
More than 150,000 people visited the great tenor’s body in the duomo in his home town of Modena. More than 50,000 people crowded into the square to watch the funeral on giant TV screens that carried the service, and more than five million Italians watched the funeral on the Italian television station RAI Uno. Italian embassies and consulates around the world opened books of condolences to offer fans and friends worldwide the opportunity to remember Pavarotti.
In a similar vein, but on a much smaller scale, CS also opened our e-mail box for readers’ tributes to the king of high Cs. I was deeply touched by the memories so many shared with us. Some had met Pavarotti; some had sung with him; some had seen him live, while others had worn out LPs, tapes, or CDs listening to his golden voice. Read these tributes within the pages of this issue, and reflect on your own memories of the man from Modena.
Also in this issue, you’ll find lots of practical advice to help you through the rest of the audition season.
Cindy Sadler lays out a host of ideas for finding great airfare. Even if you consider yourself a seasoned traveler, you’re sure to find a trick or two you haven’t thought of in this comprehensive guide to “Singer Cheap” travel.
Staying with a friend this audition season? Be sure to read Rachel Antman’s excellent guide for being a perfect houseguest, one who will be invited back again and again.
For inspiration on audition garb, be sure to check out our spotlight on the winners of the first ever Classical Singer Audition Attire Contest, and don’t miss Ana María Martínez’s advice on always looking your best.
Mezzo-soprano and seasoned artist Susan Graham also joins CS this month to share her thoughts on a successful career. For her fellow mezzos, she tells all about successfully diving into the cross-gender roles. Mezzos, also be sure to read Megan Gloss’s article on wearing the pants in opera. From Vivica Genaux to acting coach Ellen Rievman, Gloss got the goods from those in the know on the art of cross-dressing.
During this month of thanksgiving, may we be grateful for the many who have gone before, such as the amazing Luciano Pavarotti, who continue to inspire us even after their passing. I hope you enjoy this issue.
