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 Hey Pamelal,
This question may have been asked already, but why is it that so many tenors and sopranos are large, heavy individuals? I realize there are exceptions, but do you need a big frame to produce a big sound? Bill
Answer Hi Bill,
That's a good question that's been debated a lot. Who knows? I think nowdays you have to be taller and thinner to get hired - that's because opera has become visual with all of the telecasts and dvds.
There might be a genetic component linking size to voice - but I don't know if anyone has done a real study. My friends and I have always said that singing is a very oral thing to do - you sing - you talk - you eat!
You do need a few extra pounds I think because you will lose weight during an opera with the heavy and hot costumes and exertion, etc. But the key thing is to be in excellent shape. I have sung well thin and sung well heavy - but only when I was strong and healthy.
What you can't do is lose weight really quickly - that will hurt the voice. If you lose weight on a healthy diet and continue singing while you are doing that - there won't be any effect - at least that has been my experience and what I have seen.
But you've gotten me curious now - maybe I'll see if there is a study on this question.
