The secrets of life as an opera singer - with a day job

by Cheryl Warfield
Tue, 18 Dec 2007 at 3:16 PM

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Like many artists living in America's cultural capital, I have a dual existence. I am a classically trained, professional singer who works in the business office at The New York Sun. Since the 1990s, I've sung in the extra chorus at the Metropolitan Opera. I've performed operatic roles ranging from "Aïda" to "Tosca" at venues in New York and Europe. I've produced my own one-woman show about the life of legendary singer Dorothy Maynor, and I've appeared on Broadway in Hal Prince's revival of "Showboat." But not only that, on any given day here at the Sun, I make sure the bills are paid, the paychecks are delivered, and the expense reports are honest.

This blog is for readers interested in the life of a performing (but not quite struggling) artist. Balancing a career onstage with employment offstage isn't easy, but it's not impossible, either. I'll fill you in on my upcoming auditions and performances — and I'll take you behind the scenes at artistic events. And for those artists out there, I'll share some insights into the practical realities of building a safety net as you pursue the dream.

First up is a look at the most wonderful time of the year — or at least the most wonderful time of year for aspiring singers. Each year, we practice the songs of Mozart, Verdi, Wagner, and more to prepare for the annual Metropolitan Opera chorus auditions, which take place this week. Over the next few days, hundreds of singers will journey to Lincoln Center. Many will stand in line as early as 7 a.m. for an opportunity to sing for Maestro Donald Palumbo and his staff. I'll be out there, and I'll tell you all about it.

Until then, ciao.

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