OPERABIZ PODCAST

OperaBiz
  • 4.6 (17)
  • ARTS

What's it like to work in the opera industry? Hosted by Daniel Welch, OperaBiz Podcast talks with industry professionals actively working in the opera world - sharing stories, talking shop, and openly discussing the ins and outs of opera in the modern age.

  1. Jasmine Habersham - Soprano

    03/28/2025

    Jasmine Habersham - Soprano

    In this episode of the OperaBiz Podcast, host Daniel Welch speaks with soprano Jasmine Habersham about her experiences in "The Listeners" with the Lyric Opera of Chicago through her character's lens. They also discuss the contrast between performing new works and standard canon, and the importance of mental health in the arts. Jasmine shares insights on finding authenticity in performance, the significance of having a supportive team, and the do's and don'ts for aspiring artists. The conversation also touches on Jasmine's career highlights and her upcoming projects. Special Guest: Jasmine Habersham.

    48 min
  2. Samantha Hankey - Mezzo-Soprano

    02/07/2025

    Samantha Hankey - Mezzo-Soprano

    In this episode of the OperaBiz podcast, Daniel Welch and mezzo-soprano Samantha Hankey discuss the complexities of balancing a demanding opera career with personal wellbeing. They explore the evolution of their careers, the challenges of learning multiple roles, the importance of language in performance, and the dynamics of live theater. The conversation also delves into mental health, the necessity of taking breaks, and the joys and challenges of traveling as an artist. In this engaging conversation, Daniel and Samantha share insights on travel essentials, self-care, and the nuances of being an opera singer. They discuss the importance of trusting one's instincts in performance, and memorable moments in her opera career. Takeaways Mental health is a significant concern for artists in high-pressure environments. Taking breaks is essential for maintaining performance quality. Physical health impacts artistic performance and mental clarity. Routine and consistency are vital for artists on the road. The opera industry requires juggling multiple roles and responsibilities. Learning roles back-to-back can be a trial by fire experience. Preparation is crucial for performers to avoid anxiety. Language proficiency enhances performance and connection with colleagues. Artists owe it to their audience to deliver authentic performances. Self-care is crucial for artists to perform well. Avoid giving unsolicited advice to colleagues. Trust your instincts when choosing repertoire. Traveling day of a performance can be detrimental. Memorable moments in opera often extend beyond the stage. Some roles come with high expectations. Authenticity in performance can redefine iconic roles. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Opera Biz Podcast 03:02 The Evolution of Careers in Opera 05:47 The Challenges of Learning Multiple Roles 09:12 The Importance of Language in Performance 12:00 Navigating Live Theater Dynamics 15:05 Mental Health and Artist Wellbeing 22:04 Finding Balance in a Demanding Career 30:00 The Joys and Challenges of Travel as an Artist 34:13 Culinary Discoveries and Travel Essentials 36:07 Do's and Don'ts for Opera Singers 42:16 Trusting Your Instincts in Performance 49:47 Self-Care and Travel Tips for Performers 52:44 Memorable Moments in the Opera Career 58:55 Upcoming Performances and Role Preparation Special Guest: Samantha Hankey.

    53 min
  3. Melanie Bacaling - Stage Director

    12/19/2024

    Melanie Bacaling - Stage Director

    Summary In this episode of the OperaBiz Podcast, Daniel Welch and Melanie Bacaling delve into the intricacies of opera directing, what the different roles entail, interactions and workflow with the performers, and the importance of intimacy coordinators in creating a safe and empowering environment for performers. Melanie also shares her knowledge about working behind the scenes are The Metropolitan Opera - what makes it a unique and most notable company for opera in the United States. Takeaways Opera found me first, directing came second. Assistant directing in opera is very stage management oriented. The Met's workflow is unlike any other house. Preparation is crucial for performers in opera. Covering roles requires readiness and adaptability. Directing at the Met involves a large team of assistants. The challenges of opera time require patience from audiences. Opera can be a meditative art form in a fast-paced world. The magic of opera lies in its ability to expand time for audiences. Directing opera presents unique challenges, especially regarding time constraints. Intimacy coordinators are becoming essential in opera to ensure safety and comfort. Consent is crucial in performance art, impacting both romantic and intense scenes. Directors should have a clear artistic mission to guide their choices. Giving oneself permission to fail is vital for artistic growth. Avoiding comparison with others fosters a healthier artistic community. Freelancers must manage their own benefits and career paths effectively. Community support is invaluable in the arts, celebrating each other's successes. Personal milestones in one's career can be deeply fulfilling and affirming. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Opera Directing and Its Challenges 02:50 The Role of Assistant and Associate Directors 05:59 The Unique Workflow at the Met 08:50 The Importance of Preparation in Opera 12:11 Covering Roles and the Pressure of Performance 14:50 Comparing Directing at the Met to Other Houses 18:00 The Art of Directing Opera: Challenges and Insights 29:07 The Magic of Opera's Time Expansion 30:34 Challenges in Opera Direction 32:28 The Role of Intimacy Coordinators in Opera 39:37 The Importance of Consent in Performance 43:42 Do's and Don'ts for Aspiring Directors 51:33 Celebrating Community and Personal Milestones Special Guest: Melanie Bacaling.

    51 min
  4. Leah Hawkins - Soprano

    11/14/2024

    Leah Hawkins - Soprano

    In this episode of the OperaBiz Podcast, host Daniel Welch talks with soprano Leah Hawkins about her journey in the opera world, focusing on themes of identity, mental health, and the challenges faced by artists. Leah shares her experiences with audience engagement, memorable performances, and the importance of taking time off to maintain mental well-being. The conversation also touches on the significance of personal interests outside of opera and covers Leah's upcoming performances and advice for aspiring artists. Takeaways Leah emphasizes the importance of starting a season on one's own terms. Artists often face identity crises due to external expectations and labels. Taking time off is crucial for mental health and productivity. The opera industry needs to normalize breaks to prevent burnout. Audience engagement is vital for the future of opera. Memorable performances can leave lasting impacts on artists. Challenges in the opera industry often stem from lack of support and feedback. Successful artists tend to be the kindest and most supportive. It's important for artists to have interests outside of their craft. Learning roles in advance can prepare artists for unexpected opportunities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Opera Biz Podcast 01:00 Finding Identity in Music 03:52 Mental Health and Artist Well-being 09:14 The Journey into Opera 12:57 Audience Engagement and Opera's Future 16:46 Memorable Performance Moments 23:21 Challenges in the Opera Industry 32:48 Do's and Don'ts for Professional Artists 38:05 Personal Interests Beyond Opera 40:29 Upcoming Performances and Future Plans Special Guest: Leah Hawkins.

    43 min
  5. Alex Fletcher - Opera Artist Management

    10/17/2024

    Alex Fletcher - Opera Artist Management

    Summary In this episode of the Opera Biz Podcast, Daniel Welch speaks with Alex Fletcher of [Fletcher Artist Management](www.fletcherartistmanagement.com) about the intricacies of artist management in the opera industry. They discuss the evolution of management practices, the importance of a holistic approach to artist well-being, and the role of social media in promoting artists. The conversation also touches on the challenges artists face during career lulls, the significance of dual market strategies, and the pressing need for mental health awareness in the opera community. Takeaways Management is not just about securing gigs; it's about understanding the artist's life. Artists should be transparent about their career goals and personal circumstances. Social media is a powerful tool for visibility and marketing in the opera industry. A holistic approach to management considers both personal and professional well-being. Artists need to be proactive in their careers, even during lulls. Dual market strategies can enhance opportunities for emerging artists. Mental health support is crucial in the high-pressure environment of opera. Transparency in management relationships fosters trust and collaboration. Artists should express their authentic selves on social media. The opera industry is evolving, and so must the approaches to management and artist support. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Opera Biz Podcast 01:08 The Journey into Opera Management 03:48 The Evolution of Artist Management 07:26 A Holistic Approach to Artist Management 10:09 Navigating Hard Conversations with Artists 15:09 When to Seek Management 18:20 The Importance of Online Presence 21:08 The Importance of Authenticity and Presence 22:31 Navigating Social Media for Artists 23:07 Mentorship and Community in the Arts 24:36 Expectations for Artists in Management 27:46 Handling Career Lulls and Visibility 31:36 The Dual Market Approach for Artists 34:50 Collaboration Over Competition in Management 37:05 Mental Health Awareness in the Opera Industry Special Guest: Alex Fletcher.

    45 min
  6. Will Liverman: FIRE SHUT UP IN MY BONES & Creating Opportunity

    10/27/2021

    Will Liverman: FIRE SHUT UP IN MY BONES & Creating Opportunity

    Fresh off the Met's production of FIRE SHUT UP IN MY BONES, Will Liverman sits down to chat about the significance of this opera, and takes us behind the scenes of embodying the dynamic role of a living public figure, and how to create opportunity in the industry. We discuss how the role was tailored to him, what that process was like, and a glimpse behind the curtain. A cross-genre musician, Will also talks about other genres, favorite artists, and what feeds him musically. Special Guest: Will Liverman.

    42 min
  7. Lee Anne Myslewski, VP Wolf Trap Opera: Auditions in the Modern Age

    10/07/2021

    Lee Anne Myslewski, VP Wolf Trap Opera: Auditions in the Modern Age

    Lee Anne sits down for a realistic discussion about rolling with Covid protocol punches and 21st-century trends in opera auditions. She's heard over 10,000 auditions and she offer great insight to all those making a first impression, even in digital auditions. From self-producing to saving auditions that go awry, this is a must-listen for young artists! Special Guest: Lee Anne Myslewski, Vice President, WOLF TRAP Opera and Classical Programming.

    59 min
  8. Jennifer Rowley: Mainstage Auditions & Honing Your Rep

    09/26/2021

    Jennifer Rowley: Mainstage Auditions & Honing Your Rep

    Soprano Jennifer Rowley talks about mainstage auditions, European auditions, and honing your audition offerings for more successful auditions. She defines "contrasting arias" for the working professional and walks us through what it's like to audition for a mainstage role. It's a must-listen for this audition season and the perfect way to kick off the return of the OperaBiz Podcast! Special Guest: Jennifer Rowley.

    55 min
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4.6
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

What's it like to work in the opera industry? Hosted by Daniel Welch, OperaBiz Podcast talks with industry professionals actively working in the opera world - sharing stories, talking shop, and openly discussing the ins and outs of opera in the modern age.

Information

  • Creator
    OperaBiz
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    36
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Daniel Welch
  • Show Website
    OPERABIZ PODCAST