You are here:

Opera/Late Bloomer

Advertisement


Question
Does the voice have a day when it says "I'm retiring"?  I mean I am 54 and in good health and have been singing for 10 years or more in my car back and forth to work (an hour every day).  I want to leave my stand-a-lone stage and pursue Operatic singing lessons.  General comments I have heard is that my voice is strong and beautiful (in church and at home) ... but I am battling wanting to see my voice improve, strengthen and expand in range with the awkwardness of explaining to a prospective teacher my desires to learn opera at mid-life and a sense of not wanting to waste their time.  I can assure you it is not a mid-life crisis, but rather a late bloomer syndrome ... is there hope that the voice can do these things I want to see happen or do I need a reality check?

Answer
Hi Mark,

As long as you have been singing - and it seems you have been - I don't see any reason why you couldn't take lessons and improve your voice.  Sure, you won't have a "career" - but you will continue to enjoy singing - and you can learn so much more - including the opera arias you love to sing.

I'm a real believer in doing what you love - and in continuing to learn - we are never too old to learn!  I still take lessons and coachings, still learn roles and songs.  The more we use our brains the longer they work!

You don't say where you live - but if you live in or near a fairly big city or near a college music school - you should be able to find a good teacher.  The only way you will find out if you can expand your range and improve your voice is to try.

Good luck with your quest!

Pamela

Opera

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Pamela Thomas

Expertise

Questions on Opera performance, repertoire, vocal technique, acting for opera. I have some 20 years experience in opera in both leading roles and chorus. I have sung with New York City Opera since 1981. I have studied voice in NYC for over 20 years and have also taught technique and coached singers in acting.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.