Wrapping it up

We all met for the first rehearsal of “Les Contes d’Hoffmann” on October 26 and began over 5 weeks of rehearsal. During those weeks, I also had rehearsals and performances in D.C. (“Gotterdammerung”). I made it through a nasty respiratory illness in November as well. We sang the first performance of 9 on December 3 complete with a radio audience. Since then, we’ve had 4 more radio broadcasts as well as the HD broadcast to the movie theaters on December 19. Finally, we come to the closing performance.

I have enjoyed this production so much and working with my colleagues but I have to say, I’m ready to close-up shop on this show for now. A singer likes different projects and challenges. I often start working on the next show on my agenda just as I begin rehearsing the show currently on the schedule. I have to say, I haven’t spent much time on “Salome” (which comes at the end of the month in Munich since I’ve sung the opera so many times) but I will sing it back into the voice soon.

Things slow down just a bit over the next 7 weeks or so which is a welcome relief. I’ll be able to ease into this year a bit more, pull out some new repertoire, spend loads of time with the family, and do some teaching too. I’ll travel to Yale in the middle of the month for my yearly visit (Public Master Class and private coaching/teaching). Also, ahead is a benefit for my children’s school.

But don’t worry, I’ll be back on stage soon. The Los Angeles “Gotterdammerung” rehearsals are just around the corner. Nothing like a near 6 hour marathon to get your Wagner juices flowing again---yahoo!!!

I hope everyone’s New Year is off to a blessed and great start!!!