About Gisele Afeche Expertise I have been a musician and music teacher for over 25 years. I sang in the most important theatre in Brazil for 7 years, in the choir and solo. I also conduct choirs and teach singing and I did my studies in music in Brazil and France. I play the piano, harpsichord and am a singer - soprano.
Experience Professional Opera singer
Organizations I sang professionally in an opera choir in Brazil for 7 years
Question Hi, my name is Erin. A little more than a year ago, I saw my first opera and fell in love. I knew that that was what I was born to do, as cliche as it is. I joined the choir and about a month ago, I started taking voice lessons. While I'm not a horrible singer, I'm still not good. My question is, can a 17-year-old learn opera, and become good at it? Good enough to pursue a professional career (and maybe even audition for colleges this winter? I'm an upcoming senior in high school) If so, how long will it take (I'm feeling a bit frustrated because lessons haven't made a huge difference)? Should I audition for colleges, or should I wait a year and then audition? I know there is no set path to becoming an opera singer, but in addition to lessons, choir and anything else you suggest, what are other ways to become better? Any exercises you know? Thanks so much!
Answer Hello Erin
Yes, a 17 year old can become an opera singer (Maria Callas had her debut at the age of 15) all depending on training and repertoire. If you've just started taking singing lessons it will take you a few years to master the technique and build a repertoire but don't worry: you are still young and have plenty of time.
Be sure you have a very good singing teacher that can prepare you well and audition to get accepted in a very good school that can prompt you to audition for opera roles.
You shouldn't audition for colleges unless you are well prepared otherwise you won't be accepted and you might feel extremely frustrated but if you feel prepared enough you can audition to see what's like and have an idea for next year. Start enquiring about good colleges and good teachers. It takes time and patience and effort to become a singer. Learning foreign languages and doing some appropriate exercise might help (Yoga, Pilates, swimming), those improve breathing and flexibility.
Getting theory lessons are also helpful and try to watch and listen to as many operas as you can, get familiar with the roles and the stories. You can buy DVDs through amazon, it is definitely a good investment. What voice are you? Soprano?
There are excellent books about vocal technique and Richard Miller - the Structure of Singing and the art of singing are amongst them. Read, research and work. The more knowledgeable you get the best and the better musician you are the best singer you will be.
Where do you live? UK? If so I can advise you about good schools.
All the best and please contact me if you need further help.
