How did you/ do you decide whether to do a competition, and how did you choose which competition to try? Firstly, I check where and when the competition takes place and if I am fully available for the time period without any stress or concerts in between. Afterwards, I have a look at the required repertoire of the competition. Does it include Lied or only Opera? Does it require to sing mandatory pieces or new music? I ask my coaches and people who know me well about their opinions. Depending on the requirements, the gathered opinions and by knowing exactly where my strengths lay, I decide whether or not I take part in a competition. What is your biggest motivation while preparing for a competition? What are you aiming for? My biggest motivation is to present myself as good as possible to important people of the world of music. There are always agents, directors and conductors in the jury or in the audience, who might hire me for some role or concert. Sometimes one does not necessarily need to win a competition to get hired or asked to audition. I also take this as a chance to widen my repertoire and to try out new things on stage. And if I am honored with a prize in the end, that makes me happy as well!
Are there any special things you do before you go on stage?
I do not have any special habits before going on stage. What I need however, is a good and filling meal Pasta at least two hours before singing. It gives me a lot of energy and keeps me full for the whole evening. I also like to take a moment to mentally read through the music and texts once again. How long before a competition do you begin to prepare? Do you change your practice habits and practice hours? It depends on the demanded repertoire. If I have to sing music that is in my repertoire already and only needs to be freshened up, I start at least two weeks before the competition. If it is more repertoire and also new pieces, I start 1 to 2 months before.
What is most important for you in winning a competition?
What is important for me is the possibility to be heard and seen by many people. Competitions often have a big audience and through this, more people might offer potential jobs for the future. In some competitions the finals take place with orchestra and are also being filmed. So, you don’t only get the chance to sing arias with orchestra, but you also get great new videos and professional photos that you can use to advertise yourself.
« ©Artan-Hürsever
Laureates in Focus
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