From The Editor : Fall 202

From The Editor : Fall 202


Fall is a season of transition. The leaves change, and we go back to school or to our next gig with a surety that we may not have had earlier in the year. Everywhere, I’m seeing singers and voice teachers choosing paths and taking ownership of their art like never before. Creating opportunities for yourself is challenging and, yes, scary. Take this fall to generate positive self-talk about your artistic future that turns wishes into goals, and goals into daily plans. Strike a power pose and say, “I’m a star!”

Our cover story features Jasmine Habersham, who passionately created her own path forward in a career. She remains committed to living a well grounded and balanced life. She boldly forges her own path forward in our industry.

We have a robust and interesting group in our features this month, where singers demonstrate their capacity as leaders creating change and opportunities for both themselves and others. Training versatile artists for the future is the goal of Orange County School for the Arts. 

Internationally successful singers and voice teachers Nicole Cabell and Jennifer Rowley share their experiences of working dual careers: performing and teaching. Samantha Nahra advocates for music learners with dyslexia. Lucas Bouk shares his experience transitioning from mezzo to baritone and “retraining” his voice through his gender transition. Minda Larsen encourages singers to think of their life as a show and make it one you want to star in. Finally, Alexa Smith focuses on competitions and a shift to greater equity through them.

You are a star! Now, get to studying and working!

Joanie Brittingham

Joanie Brittingham is the Associate Editor for CS Music. She is also a soprano and writer living in New York City. She is the author of Practicing for Singers, available at Amazon. She can be reached at joanie@csmusic.net. Visit her on Instagram and TikTok at @joaniebrittingham.