AboutPamela 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.
Question Is there a secret or something? How do opera singers project their voice over an orchestra, and sometimes a whole chorus of 50 people? Is it something you are born with (but must develop over time)? If so, how do you know you are capable of doing it?
Thanks, Calla
Answer Hi Calia,
This is something that you learn to do. When you work with a good teacher and learn good technique and great breath control - you learn to "open" or "free" the voice. I think the only way you know whether you can do this is to keep studying.
If you have the natural talent you can definitely learn the technique! It is certainly true that you must have the right resonance and technique to cut through an orchestra - and you learn it by working with good teachers!
