Singing Soprano

by PURVI RADIA
Posted on 2009-02-04
Goan by origin, Ms Joanne Marie D’Mello currently studying in London finds singing ‘Soprano’ most suitable for her voice. She holds a performer’s certificate in voice, from Trinity College, and is presently training under Patricia Rozario OBE at the Royal College of Music, London, with support from the Goa Scholar’s Scheme, Kala Academy Goa, Neemrana Foundation, and the Inlaks Foundation, New Delhi. I got the opportunity to speak to her when she was in Goa to perform at the Monte Music Festival and here’s what she told NT.
Do you always prefer to sing Soprano to any other western classical music type?
I feel this voice type really suits me. This genre is challenging and most fulfilling.
How did you begin your life with this particular music type?
When I was 11 years old my parents took me to Kala Academy. There Juliana D’Sa, a voice teacher helped develop my interest in this field.
Who influenced you?
The two opera singers Kiri Te Kanawa and Renee Fleming influenced me.
Which was your greatest moment?
My greatest moment was when I performed with the All Soul’s Choir for BBC Songs of Praise, aired on BBC on July 20, 2008.
Besides soprano, do you prefer any other forms of music?
Yes, I do. I like singing compositions of Mozart, Handel and Schubert.
How do you manage your time between your academics and your passion to music?
It is a musician’s duty to make time from their busy schedule for his/her music. I have enough support from my college at London to take any opportunity that comes along.
What is your dream?
I want to be an opera singer in opera companies and travel all over the world performing concerts.