The Melba – Spring 2017

Edition 17 Spring 2017

BEING MELBA WITH EMMA MATTHEWS A MEZZO ASCENDING - EMILY EDMONDS WINS DAME HEATHER BEGG AWARD A FOREIGN CONCEPT - LANGUAGE, CULTURE AND ETIQUETTE

Cleo Lee-McGowan - Joseph Sambrook Opera Scholarship In this edition of The Melba, you continued with him winning the Stacey Alleaume will reprise her role CONTENTS NOTE FROM will read how each of our scholars German-Australian Opera Grant: of Micaëla (Carmen) and Violetta has been working to prepare for a twelve-month contract with (La traviata) with Opera Australia PAGE 2 THE GENERAL these important ‘next steps’ and Wiesbaden Opera from the middle next year, Samuel Piper will make • Note from the General how Melba Opera Trust continues of next year. Last month, Bronwyn his debut with Opera Queensland as Manager MANAGER to support their development Douglas received the prestigious Masetto (Don Giovanni) and you can • About Melba Opera Trust with our three-tier program. One Dame Joan Sutherland & Richard hear Nicholas Tolputt perform both • Sterling Leadership and Vision of our challenges is to ensure Bonynge Bel Canto Award along with Messiah and Bernstein Classics with that the suite of Melba programs a suite of other awards including Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. PAGE 3 remain responsive to the ever- the Audience Choice. Melba proudly At Melba headquarters, planning changing world of opera. Recent congratulates Fiona, Damian, Daniel • Since We Last Wrote is underway for our own 2018 enhancements to the Mentor and Bronwyn on their achievements program as we prepare to hear the PAGE 4-5 Program are highlighted in the pages and we are looking forward to next generation of promising young that follow. cheering for Bronwyn in the final • The Complete Performer singers at November auditions. Our of the Lady Fairfax New York • The Taste of Language One of the clearest tests of our esteemed Artistic Advisor, Sharolyn Competition later this month and adaptability is the post-Melba Kimmorley AM will lead our selection • A Foreign Concept – Culture, alum Michael Petrucelli in this year’s experiences of our alumni. Some panel and is joined by internationally Etiquette and Visas Herald Sun Aria. recent success particularly worth renowned conductor Johannes PAGE 6 noting include alumna Fiona Our scholars and alumni continue Fritzsch and Artistic Director of New • An Honour for Sharolyn Amy Black Jopson receiving the Vienna State to take great strides nationally Zealand Opera, Stuart Maunder AM. Opera Award which will see Fiona and internationally and with great • A Ruskin Fundraiser I would like to express our heartfelt Spring is upon us and with it comes relocating to Vienna later this year to excitement we look forward to gratitude to the Melba community SINCE WE LAST WROTE PAGE 7 audition circuits, the commencement commence work with Vienna State hearing Siobhan Stagg, Alexandra for once again helping us to deliver AN UPDATE FROM OUR 2017 MELBA SCHOLARS of young artist programs in the UK, Opera. Daniel Carison and Damian Flood, Jeremy Kleeman, Brenton • Learning by Doing – Melba an exceptional year for our scholars. Europe and America and some of Arnold both received significant Spiteri, Timothy Newton, Nathan Lay Artists Performance Program I hope you enjoy reading about Australia’s most prestigious singing prizes in the Australian Singing and Cleo Lee-McGowan appearing the fruits of your support in the PAGE 8 competitions. Competition and Daniel’s success in Victorian Opera’s 2018 season. following pages of The Melba. goal to move to Germany and this 2017 has been an incredible year. I Program. When my fellow scholars collaborate with Opera Queensland • A Mezzo Ascending – the opportunity has provided just that. understudied the lead role of Giroflé/ and I were afforded this opportunity and Expressions Dance Company Dame Heather Begg Memorial As well as opera, this year I have Girofla in Two Weddings, One Bride in July, her masterclass and private on their recent production Mozart Award 2017 also spent a great deal of time with Opera Australia. Attending sessions were invaluable and the Airborne. Alongside performing, I PAGE 9 carving a career as a concert singer. rehearsals and learning the demands experience was something I’ll never have been working with my voice ABOUT MELBA OPERA TRUST In September I completed the last of a cover was really wonderful. forget! teacher, Dr. Margaret Schindler, • Into the Sacred Space chapter of my Schubert triology with Perhaps the most thrilling was that on developing and building my Melba Opera Trust is Australia’s premier scholarship program for promising young opera singers. Driven by Dame Nellie • A Sense of Community Damian Arnold (Tenor) a performance of Die Schöne Müllerin I was able to put my studies to the instrument. These sessions are Melba’s conviction “a beautiful voice is not enough”, the program nurtures artistic development alongside business with artistic partner, Geoff Urquhart. test and go on for three shows with complemented by my ongoing work PAGE 10 training, mentoring and performance experience. We are the next step for singers preparing to become professionals on Eleanor Blakemore Opera Society only a few hours notice each time. with Brisbane-based coaches and the world stage. Scholarship • Being Melba language teachers. 2017 has been full of many exciting Once Two Weddings, One Bride was PAGE 11 Inspiring Excellence – Realising Potential – Forging Careers opportunities. I recently performed over, I was involved in the entirety I am looking forward to performing • Third Time’s a Charm in Opera Australia’s production of of the Opera Australia chorus winter my firstMoralès in Carmen with Cleo Lee-McGowan (Soprano) Parsifal. The opportunity to hear season. A definite highlight through QSO, conducted by Alondra de la PAGE 12 this season was performing in Parra and am very excited to have Jonas Kaufmann sing in his native Joseph Sambrook Opera Parsifal with Jonas Kaufmann just been cast as Masetto in Opera • Letter from Abroad – tongue was inspirational. − Scholarship Jade Moffat STERLING LEADERSHIP AND VISION Bronwyn Douglass (Mezzo-soprano) magical! Queensland’s 2018 production of I had the honour of performing in the It has been such a privilege to Don Giovanni. • Supporters of Melba Amelia Joscelyne Memorial My next chapter has now begun: finals of the IFAC Australian Singing work with Melba mentors such as Opera Trust Rob joins the following list of luminaries, all of whom have Scholarship I have moved to London to begin Competition in July, with the Opera Yvonne Kenny AM, Emma Matthews helped shape Melba Opera Trust into the world class program study at the Guildhall School of Australia orchestra, under the baton I have been performing as well as and Stuart Skelton. It is always Music and Drama, learning from that it is today: of Nicholas Milton AM. This was competing in many eisteddfods invaluable to hear their opinions Melba mentor and Australian opera an incredible experience and I am and competitions. I am thrilled to and advice, and note the difference Melba Medal Recipients icon, Yvonne Kenny AM. thrilled to have won prizes to study have been a finalist in the Sydney in sound between the start and end with David Harper in London and to Eisteddfod Opera Scholarship and of our session. In July, we learnt 1993 JOAN ARNOLD OBE study Italian in Italy. placed second in the Opera and Arts all about the power of stage make Jonathan Wilson (Repetiteur) Support Group Vocal Scholarship. I up; I loved seeing my appearance I really enjoyed working with have also been named as a finalist transform from glamorous girl to old Margaret Schofield Opera PETER BRERETON legendary soprano Yvonne Kenny 1994 in the Opera Foundation for Young witch! It has been a great learning Scholarship AM in the July Mentor Program Australians Lady Fairfax New experience to work with opera block in Sydney, especially as this There have been many exciting Sue Logie-Smith, Robert G Logie-Smith AM and Nance Grant AM; MBE York Scholarship and the Joan directors. The time we spent with 1997 BILL RASHLEIGH will provide an excellent contact developments taking place in my Melba Opera Trust Board Sutherland and Richard Bonynge Georgia Hall (Soprano) Patrick Nolan was so beneficial for in London where I have recently professional life recently. I have Roz Zalewski-Ruskin, Chair Bel Canto Award. It was very me as he helped us strike the right relocated to begin my study at Harold Blair Opera Scholarship been awarded the Geoffrey Parsons Kate Shelmerdine, Deputy Chair LYNETTE CASEY-BRERETON exciting to be singing in the Opera balance of acting in an audition Dmitry Danilovich,Treasurer 1998 Guildhall School of Music and Mel & Nina Waters Award Award in Adelaide, the only national Chris Arnold Australia Chorus for the first time setting. It is vital for singers to Drama. competition for collaborative Peter Reilly in August in the Verdi Requiem and Life is busy! Between the Mentor possess foreign language skills, Peter Garnick, Managing Director & pianists in Australia. I have also Company Secretary 2009 THE LATE PAMELA, LADY VESTEY Parsifal. Parsifal in particular was blocks I have been studying voice so I was thrilled to begin German taken part in many exciting an amazing experience, with so at the University of Newcastle recently, in addition to continuing Melba Opera Trust concert opportunities including the ABN 96 424 419 725 many phenomenal artists involved. Conservatorium of Music where with Italian and French. These last ALFRED RUSKIN AM (POSTHUMOUS) Melbourne Recital Centre ‘Nights L8, 440 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 2009 I am looking forward to starting I have recently been awarded few months have been an incredible T: (03) 9944 2100 F: (03) 9867 3364 at the Opera’ concert presented www.melbaoperatrust.com.au rehearsals for the Tudor Portraits The Doris Smith Scholarship. As experience and have allowed me to by MOT, with scholars past and concerts with Sydney Philharmonia self-directed study, I challenged develop not only my vocal ability, Design by Charles Lin Design 2009 STEPHEN BOLTON (POSTHUMOUS) present. Furthermore I have been www.charleslin.com.au Choirs to be performed in the myself to produce an opera for the but also my stagecraft and business fortunate enough to work with diva Daniel Carison (Baritone) City Recital Hall in late August. first time, successfully staging and skills. Copy and editing by Dr Jillian Graham and Roz Zalewski-Ruskin presenting Robert G Logie-Smith AM with his medal BILL JOSCELYNE (POSTHUMOUS) & superstar Amelia Farrugia in many Carolyn Archibald Since time of writing, Bronwyn was performing as Laetitia in Menotti's 2009 MARY-JANE JOSCELYNE Paulette Bisley Opera Scholarship & concerts around Australia, and most Images by Les O'Rourke, Daniele Martinie and announced the winner of the Joan The Old Maid and the Thief. I've Ruskin Opera Award importantly ‘Diva’ at the City Recital Peter Smith This year’s AGM marked the end of Melba Opera Trust honoured Sutherland and Richard Bonynge Bel enjoyed performing as a Melba artist Hall, Angel Place in Sydney. If you would prefer not to receive this an era for Melba Opera Trust with Rob with its most esteemed 2009 GRAHAM SELLARS-JONES I feel as though 2017 has been a Canto Award along with the Georg at various concerts in and around publication, please contact Melba Opera Trust. former Chair Robert G Logie-Smith acknowledgement; the awarding of a year full of great strides for me. Solti Accademia di Bel Canto Summer Melbourne, while preparing for the MOT have facilitated me to work with AM retiring from the Board after over Melba Medal. Since my international debut as School Prize, the Tait Memorial Trust finals of the Joan Sutherland Richard some of the finest vocal coaches a decade of service. 2010 PROFESSOR MEL WATERS The tradition of the Melba Medal Papageno in Die Zauberflöte with the Prize and the Audience Choice Award. Bonynge Foundation's inaugural and repetiteurs in the country Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, Sydney Song Prize. Recently, I was including Sharolyn Kimmorley, Among the gestures of appreciation commenced in 1993 with the Samuel Piper (Baritone) dedicated to Rob in previous months inaugural recipient, Joan Arnold 2012 JENNY SUTHERLAND I was awarded the prestigious honoured to be invited to perform Jennifer Marten-Smith and Stephen from the Melba community was OBE, receiving the accolade on her German-Australian Opera Grant and a recital with pianist Claire Howard John & Elizabeth Wright-Smith Mould at furthering my knowledge the extraordinary announcement retirement as Director of the Melba am now preparing to make the great Race at a private soirée in the home Scholarship of the operatic repertoire. I have 2014 JOHN & ELIZABETH WRIGHT-SMITH leap of relocating to Germany in of Deborah Humble and Bruce also enjoyed playing for many of the of the Reilly & Logie-Smith Mentor Conservatorium of Music. The medal I have had some fantastic 2018. The award means that I have Caldwell. master classes that have taken place Endowment, a tribute to Rob & Sue has since been awarded 14 times to opportunities since we last wrote This newsletter is printed on Sovereign PROFESSORS JOSEPH SAMBROOK & been offered a 12 month contract during the Melba Mentor Blocks Logie-Smith established by Director acknowledge similarly exceptional In the autumn edition of The Melba − among these have been my Offset derived from well-managed forests 2015 MARY-JANE GETHING with the Hessisches Staatstheater including those given by Stuart and other controlled sources certified Peter Reilly. contributions to the Melba. Rob’s Zoe Drummond (Soprano) I mentioned that I was looking first St. Matthew Passion, which I in Wiesbaden where I will be a Skelton and Yvonne Kenny AM. against Forest Stewardship Council ® medal cites his tenure as Chair, forward to working with Yvonne performed in the Northern Rivers of standards, a non-profit organisation devoted to As a final and lasting tribute in the principle artist within the company. Dame Nellie Melba Scholarship & marked by his “sterling leadership NSW. It has been a great pleasure to encouraging the responsible management of presence of Company members, 2017 ROBERT G LOGIE-SMITH AM It has always been my long term Kenny, AM as part of the Mentor the world’s forests. and vision”. Patrick & Vivian Gordon Award

Page 2 The Melba - Magazine of Melba Opera Trust Edition 17 Spring 2017 Page 3 THE COMPLETE PERFORMER A FOREIGN CONCEPT – CULTURE, ETIQUETTE AND VISAS “While as a foreigner you enhance one’s presence – style over tailored discussion with Australian what is a ‘Fest’ (firm) as opposed to We couldn’t agree more, and this may be excused from certain fashion is the key!” mezzo-soprano Deborah Humble. a ‘Gast’ (guest) contract? year’s scholars have been fortunate “The opera singer of today needs to be a complete performer. comprehensive, and the technique Deborah has lived and worked in to have regular skype discussions social nuances, the best way Austalians are often known for their But while Deborah says it’s true They must not only have control of their voices, but they must is to apply this to their singing.” Italy, France, UK and Germany, with alumni from around the globe For most young singers, this is the to build better relationships relaxed, easy going nature, however that “Australians may need to be able to work with their bodies to create all-round complex, which we thought made her the who are only too happy to share their most challenging aspect of good is to understand as much as punctuality should be a given. “It is ideal candidate to deliver a candid work harder at language and ‘on the ground’ insights. believable characters.” stagecraft and something they need you can about the culture essential to be punctual, no matter industry chat. The intention is understanding foreign culture, where you are.” Of course, how customs and systems”, she adds As the final piece to the puzzle, it’s to dedicate focused time on. and each of the countries for Deborah to discuss some of Stagecraft and character is that “audiences are becoming punctuality is valued may differ the practicalities and challenges some words of consolation: all well and good to know how to It goes without saying that the development are a key focus for more adept at reading character, you visit.” Cecellia Telkes, depending on where you are with that singers face when arriving in “You only have to note the high behave when you are in a foreign process of character interpretation a developing young opera singer. and their expectations of acting Principal: Protocol and little to no flexibility in Germany a new country and are trying to numbers of Australian singers and country, but getting there in the involves thorough preparation. While scholars undertake individual standards are higher”. This, he Etiquette Consultancy versus a somewhat more relaxed establish themselves. Common instrumentalists enjoying success first place can be an obstacle in Research into the context of stagecraft coaching using their suggests, is because “television approach in Italy. country-specific audition practice abroad to realise an international itself. An ever-changing landscape, the opera sets the scene so that For most of our scholars, carving a scholarship funding, development is and cinema have become such a will be an area of focus, along with career is absolutely possible. The the world of international visas is singers can then explore the career in opera inevitably includes The best way to greet colleagues? further supported through scheduled dominant part of our daily lives, and other industry-specific (and social!) teachers and opera coaches I have vast and complex. For the first time psychology of the character and travel and more often than not, “The first thing to remember is to activities of the Mentor Program. the acting is usually of such a high pointers to help arm scholars with spoken to in Germany, France and in October, we have engaged Visa their role within the opera. “For living abroad. It’s a life changing address people by their right titles.” This year, our scholars have worked standard, that when people come useful information. Italy are very positive about the specialists to de-mystify the process on character development with Lindy into an opera house, they expect this, young singers really need to experience and our alumni tell us the When deciding who to greet first in a contribution Australian artists can and better explain what options are Hume (retired Artistic Director of the same – the acting has to be be curious and I appreciated that more that we can do to help prepare room, in Germany, Cecellia suggests Like Cecellia, Deborah will also make in a European environment.” available for Australian singers. Queensland Opera), scene-staging believable and skillful.” in the Melba scholars. We also our scholars, the better. We’ve keeping “age over beauty” in mind. emphasize punctuality along with with Stuart Maunder (Artistic focused on encouraging them to already discussed the importance of “Personal space is important in the always using people’s correct titles. Director New Zealand Opera) and Patrick had this firmly in mind as understand and use their bodies. It’s language; now we focus on cultural UK”, she cautions, “so apart from “In Germany, you should never audition stagecraft with Patrick he approached the recent workshop challenging, but they’re aiming to be understanding, country-specific handshakes, it is best to avoid being address anyone by their first name Nolan (Incoming Artistic Director with Melba scholars. Scholars complete performers – it’s no longer work ethics and the complexity of physical during conversations, unless invited to do so and it’s best Opera Queensland). brought arias to the session and acceptable merely to 'park and bark'.” the working visa! such as touching someone’s arm or not to ask people ‘How are you?’, “we analysed those arias from a back”. In France, men will generally because Germans you don’t know A few years ago we welcomed “Each year we engage a variety of character perspective to look at how shake hands when they meet though won’t indulge in idle chit chat!” industry acclaimed directors to work they (the singers) can embody the Cecellia Telkes into the Mentor less firmly than in Australia, while with scholars on various aspects characters and get into the world Program to work with scholars on women are more likely to air-kiss Scholars will have the opportunity of stagecraft and character”, said of the character and the story they etiquette and help them hold their each other – “anywhere from two to discuss how best to approach General Manager, Amy Black. “The are singing about in as nuanced and own at the finest of dinner tables. to four times, so try to go with the agents and secure auditions, scholars are able to experience rich a way as possible”. Patrick adds This year, we expanded the brief flow”, is the recommendation. “And including the importance of good different styles of directing and that there is no one correct way to and asked Cecellia to build in some when in Italy – well, anywhere, really research and personalising letters are challenged with different approach a character. “You could say handy hints on how to behave – don’t forget to take some wrapped or approach. “I recommend the perspectives which they can that there are as many approaches when living and working in various chocolates or pastries if you’re Deutsche Bühnen Jahrbuch (www. then apply in their artistic work. to building a character as there are European countries. invited to someone’s home”. buehnengenossenschaft.de) for a list Ultimately, we hope it will help them people on the planet.” of all German theatres. It’s a good “How should one dress?” is often develop their own approach.” All this might seem difficult to idea to write well in advance and to the first question. In the UK and As part of the process of developing remember, but as Cecellia reassured be aware of the audition seasons Germany, advises Cecellia, “for Fresh from leading his two-day their own, unique understanding scholars, “if you bear in mind the from September to December and more formal meetings it’s best to be workshop with Melba scholars in of the character, Patrick stresses basic principles of good etiquette – January to April”, she says. Knowing conservative, while in France and our Mentor Block in July, we spoke the necessity for the singer’s body consideration, respect and honesty – opera terminology is also useful. Italy, it may be worthwhile investing to Patrick about what he feels opera to be actively engaged. “Young you’ll likely make the right choices.” For example, what is a ‘Fach’ (a term in well-tailored clothing. Having said companies are seeking in their artists’ relationships with their used in Germany since the 19th that, being in the artistic industry, To complement Cecellia's session, young artists. Patrick’s broad sense bodies should be integrated and Patrick Nolan working with Melba scholars century to categorise voices). And some creativity in dressing can this year we have also introduced a

THE TASTE OF LANGUAGE The 2017 Mentor Program is made possible by: The task of learning a foreign commented that they now consider this year’s Mentor Program, we particular topic of discussion. The While impeccable diction is what is spoken nowadays in Rome John and Elizabeth Wright-Smith language is challenging for their language classes to be as have introduced a conversational only rule – no English! important in every language, be it or Milan”. But the most effective Reilly & Logie-Smith Mentor important as their singing lessons language focus. The intention is to Italian, French, German, Russian way to absorb another language, Regular Italian diction coaching Endowment anyone. However, if you are and suggested that if they had their complement the scholars’ individual or Czech, “being able to speak and according to Johannes, is to live for has reinforced the artistic process, a hopeful young Australian time with Melba again they would language study with activities and think in the language you are singing at least six months in the country Lady Southey AC as have a number of more unique opera singer faced with apply themselves more to language experiences to encourage them in gives a freedom and spontaneity where the language is spoken. Hamer Family Fund ‘Italian’ experiences. Italian language study – not just learning diction to speak more and to provide a that is essential as a performer”. Even though many stage directors the prospect of mastering expert Teresa Desmarchelier led Stuart Leslie Foundation and grammar, but also participating more practical application of their from the UK and the USA operate the diction of four or five an all-eating, all-speaking Italian This year, Mentor Blocks have also in opportunities to ‘practise’ the language skills. Our hope is that in English in German opera houses, Teresa Desmarchelier working with melba scholars cooking class, with scholars been themed into specific languages foreign languages – and language when on home soil. scholars will develop a greater “to sing the role in German – that’s delighting in rolling their own – Italian, French and German conversational proficiency in appreciation for the commitment a task! You really need to get the While alumni stressed that language gnocchi. They also attended a – featuring intensive language at least one – the process can that language study requires and feeling, the taste, the flavour, the study underpinned their artistic social aperitivo, enjoying pizza and coaching and masterclasses that ultimately they will be better instinct of the language and how it’s be downright daunting! development, they also noted the Italian conversation with regular supporting the respective language equipped for their operatic careers." used in context.” This is something importance of language in helping Melba Mentor, Italian soprano Daria focus. In Australia, opportunities to be Johannes understands from his them to integrate socially in a Scholars often undertake private Masiero. Daria delivered an Italian immersed in a foreign language Our ‘German’ block took place in own experience, having studied less foreign country, to be able to form tuition in Italian, French and German repertoire master class, with the are understandably rarer than for September and featured a master English than French or Russian when friendships with foreign language for the Melba program, but the last hour being presented in Italian, our European counterparts. While class in German repertoire with growing up in East Germany and Johannes Fritzsch working with scholar Samuel Piper, and scholar Jonathan speakers and to provide flexibility focus this year has been on Italian. and the year will be capped off with most of us are fortunate to have German conductor Johannes therefore being on a steep learning Wilson at the piano when working with colleagues from “For most singers, Italian is the first an Italian dinner – Italian cuisine, access to a foreign language from Fritzsch, as well as coachings with curve when he came to Australia a variety of backgrounds. other language they encounter”, Italian waiters, three Italian speakers our early school days, the idea of native German vocal coach, Jenifer first in 1992. says Melba Opera Trust Artistic and our scholars. mastering other languages simply Language study has always been Marten-Smith. Johannes echoes Advisor Sharolyn Kimmorley AM. For those scholars who embrace isn’t as inherent in our culture. For a central component of Melba Why food, aperitivo and Sharolyn’s opinion on the necessity “It’s probably the easiest to learn and the idea of the new conversational an emerging opera singer, however, scholarships with scholars using conversation? As Sharolyn points for young Australian singers to pure Italian vowels are fundamental language program, Sharolyn it’s fundamental and it presents a their scholarship funding for private out, “the biggest challenge is to lose work hard on developing language to a good vocal technique. And believes it’s a very useful method. real challenge to scholars as they tutoring, diction coaching and the fear of speaking and making skills because “the competition without question it’s the language Perhaps after their conversations prepare to compete on the world classroom study in language schools mistakes. We felt it may help if we is significant and the stakes are in which the bulk of the operatic and culinary adventures, singers stage. such as the Goethe Institute, the encouraged the use of the language high”. While correct pronunciation repertoire is performed.” can venture overseas with more Italian Institute of Culture, the Dante in more relaxed and informal is essential, it’s not enough. “You This reality was obvious in the confidence, ready to absorb the Alighieri Society and the Alliance With all this in mind, the addition situations, where the singers can want to know what the words feedback we received from last nuances of other languages to which Française. of a ‘conversation’ hour in each develop confidence and make more mean – not just in a general sense, year’s Mentor Program review. Johannes refers. Sharolyn sums it all Mentor Block has now become a progress.” but specifically”, he says. This International alumni identified However, armed with this fresh up well: “A language is like good food staple activity. With a native Italian complicates matters because “the the lack of language proficiency feedback, General Manager Amy Speaking more broadly, Sharolyn or wine – you must love the taste of speaker directing the conversation, language we use in operas is not as one of their most significant Black decided to place emphasis cannot stress enough the the words in your mouth!” scholars focus on refining their always the language we speak now disadvantages when establishing on language study. “As part of importance of learning languages. Teresa Desmarchelier with scholar Daniel Carison themselves abroad. Several alumni conversational Italian based on a – the Italian of Mozart’s time is not

Page 4 The Melba - Magazine of Melba Opera Trust Edition 17 Spring 2017 Page 5 AN HONOUR FOR SHAROLYN

members of the classical music fraternity. Sharolyn’s award marks the second of its kind, with the inaugural award being received last year by Maestro Richard Bonynge AC, CBE. Nominated by a panel of industry peers, Sharolyn received the prestigious accolade in recognition LEARNING BY DOING of her long and distinguished career. In presenting the MAA, Jeffrey Black, It is with great pride that we Chair of the ASC Music Advisory – MELBA ARTISTS PERFORMANCE PROGRAM acknowledge our Artistic Committee, praised Sharolyn for Advisor, Sharolyn Kimmorley her “exceptional musician’s ear and unstinting, unrelenting commitment AM, as the recipient of this to excellence”. The old adage that the best way to learn is by doing underpins Melba Opera Trust’s Performance Program – Melba Artists. We source year’s MOST Achievement In her acceptance speech Sharolyn a range of performance experiences for our singers in a variety of venues from recitals to small operas, recordings, church music and Award (MAA) expressed her gratitude along with private soirees. MOST (administrators of the the promise that she will “continue These opportunities help our singers to become more versatile, develop confidence in their performance and give them a taste of life as a freelance artist. IFAC Handa Australian Singing to share (her) experiences with this Singers are paid a fee for these performances, so as well as helping them put their learning into practice, they are provided with a modest level of professional Competition) established the wonderful profession”. income. And of course the program gives the singers greater public exposure and helps to raise their profile as young professional artists. MAA Award to acknowledge the We are very pleased to hear it! Our contributions of established industry But the scholars are not the only ones to benefit. The experience of our Melba Artists clients is also enriched by having our singers perform for them and their warmest congratulations Sharolyn – professionals and recognise elite friends, particularly in the intimate context of private dinner parties and functions. a well-deserved honour.

A Birthday Celebration for John John, “the final song – ‘Wunderbar’ and the date was set” Rex had Chinese customers and decided Dowling by Cole Porter – really summed up clearly thought of everything, to host a special dinner at our the whole evening!” including hiring a driver to bring the restaurant, Locale. We wanted In May this year, Melba supporter performers to Flinders, “together it to be a memorable evening, John Dowling engaged singers John and wife Ros particularly with chicken sandwiches made by and how better to do that than to Cleo Lee-McGowan (soprano) appreciated that Daniel and Cleo my wife’s mother for the singers to pair beautiful food and wine with and Daniel Carison (baritone), were able to stay on after their munch on along the way!” beautiful music. De Bortoli is very accompanied by Melba Associate performance and chat with guests, proud to support Melba Opera Trust Artist Rhodri Clarke, to perform who relished the opportunity to Meanwhile back at the farm, the 50 and we thought it would be a nice at an elegant dinner party for 16 talk with the singers about their guests had enjoyed a sit-down lunch way to highlight the relationship. in the Gallery at The Australian developing careers. “It was a great and a wander around the garden. Club to celebrate a ‘significant privilege to have them”, said John. According to Rex, “the atmosphere “Four singers delivered short musical birthday’. John’s association with “Ros and I are strong admirers of was buzzing because they all knew brackets between each course and Roz Zalewski-Ruskin, Ruskin scholar Daniel Carison & Jeremy Ruskin QC Melba goes back a long way, from the work the Melba Opera Trust there was a surprise, but they didn’t were a big hit with our guests, many when he attended a function at The does, because the scholars learn know what”. All guests were seated taking a number of photos and Australian Club about 12 years ago, every aspect – not just musical by 3pm “and a wonderful repertoire video content. Melba arranged an at which Melba Conservatorium performance, but they are taught of music was performed. We had electric piano for the evening and A RUSKIN FUNDRAISER students performed, including to manage their own careers as Cilea, Mozart, Dvořák, Gounod, the musical program was perfect; a none other than our own Amy freelance artists, so providing Poulenc, Bizet and Barber, and a terrific balance of opera and lighter The Ruskin Opera Award reflects the commitment of Melba Black! Here John met former Melba opportunities for them to perform is selection from the musicals My music theatre.” Opera Trust Chair Roz Zalewski-Ruskin and husband Jeremy Opera Trust Managing Director Mel a mutually satisfactory arrangement. Fair Lady and Carousel provided an By all accounts, the evening was a Waters, who recommended a piano We look forward to doing this again uplifting finish.” The audience was Ruskin QC to the recognition of talented young artists. It resounding success. “The singers teacher to John from whom he still at a suitable time – anything we can apparently enthralled throughout continues the legacy of Jeremy’s parents, Alfred and Pamela were exceptional and the feedback takes lessons. “From then on, we contribute to Melba is worth doing.” “and the show-stopper was an we received from our guests was Ruskin, who were extremely active supporters of the Arts and developed a very fond association operatically-sung ‘Happy Birthday Opera at the farm for Rex Swindel- very enthusiastic. We were so had a particular fondness for the Melba Conservatorium where with Melba and their artists”, for our dear friend!” Hurst impressed that we’re now planning Alfred served as Chairman of Council from 1972-1996. said John, “and five years ago we Afternoon tea was served after the a similar experience early next year arranged a dinner at the Australian A month later in Flinders, Melba performance, “an opportunity for for members of our Melba Wine Club Each year, Roz and Jeremy careers and provide a glimpse into Club for another significant birthday, supporter Rex Swindel-Hurst hired guests to mingle with our three new to enjoy.” generously host an event, primarily their journey. For example, Daniel when Janet Todd, Brenton Spiteri Melba Artists to perform at a private young friends and develop a new to showcase the development of performed ‘Papagena, Papagena’ and Amir Farid performed. It was event at his farm in Flinders on With De Bortoli’s delicious range awareness by many of this unique Ruskin Opera Award scholars to their from The Magic Flute; an aria he such a wonderful evening, that it the Mornington Peninsula. On this of La Bohème wines, we think an and special organisation.” syndicate of friends and associates performed when he won this year’s was just a question of when we’d do occasion, Melba scholar Georgia afternoon of Puccini could well be and particularly to those who have German Australian Opera Grant it again.” Hall (soprano) and alumna Shakira “The whole day was a triumph”, Rex in order! supported the Ruskin Opera Award which will see him relocating to Tsindos (mezzo-soprano) took to the added, “and we got great feedback John pronounced the most recent so far. As Roz points out, “it is also Germany next year. Stacey delighted stage, accompanied by Tim Mallis. from our audience. It was a privilege event to be another great success. an opportunity to introduce potential audiences with Violetta’s aria ‘È Like John’s, Rex’s association with to host Georgia, Shakira and Tim, “I guess that was exemplified by the new supporters, and raise additional strano…Sempre libera’ from La Melba Opera Trust goes back a few and we hope to organise another fact that come 11.30pm, no-one had funds for Melba Opera Trust”. traviata, a role she understudied for years and he has had the pleasure soirée in the future. We thank Melba gone home!” he added. The musical Opera Australia and had four hours of being present at a number of Opera Trust for their ongoing work.” The occasion was held on 19 August entertainment was spread across notice before having to take to the Melba events. “The idea to have a at Cranlana, the magnificent Toorak the evening, with one bracket after A vineyard performance for stage to perform the role! performance in our own home had mansion owned by Melbourne’s Myer the entrée and the next after the De Bortoli been on our to-do list for some time”, family. This year it took the form of A silent auction was also a feature main course. John had arranged Rex admitted. “We just needed an Melba Artists have also enjoyed a three-course dinner presented by of the evening guests vying for the performance as a surprise, occasion and the birthday of a very performing for our wine partner De Fred & Ginger Catering, including the opportunity to enjoy a private delighting guests when Cleo, Daniel dear friend who is an opera buff was Bortoli, in the beautiful Yarra Valley. fine Shelmerdine wines provided opera soiree in their own home, a and Rhodri appeared to sing the the catalyst.” by Melba Opera Trust Deputy Chair, gourmet dinner party for 10 people first set of operatic arias by Mozart, Leanne De Bortoli spoke to a Kate Shelmerdine, and husband donated by Fred & Ginger Catering, Donizetti and Puccini. The second So Rex contacted Melba Artists particularly successful dinner in their Stephen Shelmerdine. Dinner and and six bottles of premium 2012 bracket was a bit lighter, with some Manager Jo Beaumont, “who award winning restaurant Locale “We lively conversation was interspersed Scotchmans Hill Cornelius Syrah musical theatre and according to organised everything beautifully, were entertaining a group of our with two brackets of musical generously donated by Melba Opera performances by Ruskin Opera Trust Board member Peter Reilly. Award alumna Stacey Alleaume The ballroom was still full at (soprano) and current Ruskin Award 11.30pm, the reflection of a holder Daniel Carison (baritone), wonderful evening enjoyed by all. accompanied on piano by Associate Roz was thrilled with the outcome, Artist Rhodri Clarke. heralding it a “very successful event” Cleo Lee-McGowan, Joseph Sambrook Opera Scholarship The musical program had been which raised over $16,000 in support designed to showcase important of the Ruskin Opera Award. moments of Stacey and Daniel’s

Page 6 The Melba - Magazine of Melba Opera Trust Edition 17 Spring 2017 Page 7 Having recently graduated from Happiness by Hong Kong composer and coaches available at the school. the Jette Parker Young Artists Hin-Yang Chan at the Canberra There were regular, wonderful Programme at the Royal Opera International Music Festival, was performance opportunities, as well House, Covent Garden, the Bass Soloist in Bach’s St John as incredible artists coming to Scholars Damian Arnold and Bronwyn Douglass working with Yvonne Kenny AM foreseeable future is shaping up to Passion with Melbourne Bach Choir give master classes which I could be busy and rewarding for the young at the Melbourne Recital Centre both observe and take part in. A couldn’t help taking on Yvonne’s into trying to reach that potential.” these events would not be complete mezzo. For the 2017/18 season and sang in three large outdoor highlight was being selected to sing INTO THE SACRED SPACE advice and we found ourselves without the chance to chat with the she is an Associate Artist with events. I am now preparing for a role in a live broadcast of a masterclass As Melba supporter and master sitting taller, relaxing the jaw, singers and mentor over a delicious Classical Opera Company in London debut in Monteverdi’s Coronation of with American baritone Thomas “Performing in master class is the Generously hosted by Josephine class attendee Suzanne Maple- breathing into the belly, tipping the glass of De Bortoli wine. “A highlight and will be making her debut with Poppea with Pinchgut Opera later Hampson. Alongside working with perfect way to bridge the gap of Sukkar AM and Tony Sukkar AM Brown points out, “it must be very head forward slightly to open up the at the end of each Melba event them singing Giacinta in Mozart’s this year, along with other events my teachers at MSM, I was able to understanding between a singer and in their home in Bellevue Hill, an difficult to receive criticism in front larynx, projecting our smiles through is mingling with the scholars to La finta semplice in June 2018. and auditions. My ongoing intense work with other coaches around the public. It is a unique opportunity intimate group of Sydney supporters of an audience, but witnessing the our cheeks and settling our posture soak up their infections, youthful In March-April 2018, she will join technical study enabled by the Begg the city and broadened my network to get a glimpse of the detailed work were invited to observe the ‘sacred suggestions of ways to achieve through the pelvis and heels!” enthusiasm for their craft and to Scottish Opera to sing the role of Award has made such an intense throughout New York and the USA. that goes into preparing music for space’ of a master class, with three a better outcome, the singers’ hear about the planned next steps The Composer in its new production schedule possible. I also have plans performance that would normally Melba scholars, Bronwyn Douglass, Being critiqued publicly is a attitudes and their corrections is I have since been engaged in concert in their careers”, says Diane. of Richard Strauss’s Ariadne auf to study language and audition in happen behind closed doors. Trusting Daniel Carison and Damian Arnold, challenging prospect for anyone enlightening – it does help one and opera work throughout New “I particularly enjoy charting how Naxos which will also be performed Germany later this year with the your audience and daring to get intensively refining their arias with and second-time scholar Bronwyn understand this craft and highlights York City, as well as continuing to much the repeat scholars continue as part of the Holland Park Opera award’s support. The Dame Heather things wrong in the quest to better Yvonne. Douglass suggests that singing the depth of skills required to study with teachers, refining my to grow in their performance and 2018 Summer Season. And later Begg Memorial Award continues to oneself can be extremely rewarding in master classes “can be more achieve a successful performance”. craft, auditioning and developing Melba supporter Diane Morris has their constant gratitude for the in 2018, she will travel home to make a profound difference and I am for the singer and exciting for the daunting than live performance And as Diane notes, “Yvonne’s ability my operatic career here in the USA. attended several Melba events, support of the ‘Melba family’.” Australia to sing the role of Semira incredibly grateful. audience.” - Bronwyn Douglass in many ways, because you are to deftly hone in on the mechanics Naturally I have enjoyed returning and always finds it “wonderful in Hasse’s Artaserse for Pinchgut performing arias you are still of each voice, as well as convey the Along the same vein, in October to Australia at least once a year to At Melba Opera Trust we consider to be transported away by such Opera in November-December. The working on and even if you take nuances demanded by the inflexions members of the Joscelyne perform. I sang in Handel's Hercules our donors to be the unsung heroes beautiful performances in a more following season will see her return a work you’re confident with, you of each language, was remarkable community will have a glimpse into for the Canberra Choral Society in of the program and we enjoy intimate setting”. But this was to Covent Garden and she will also fully expect it to be picked apart and her critique was delivered in a the realm of the singing studio, as 2015, in Pinchgut Opera's production creating memorable behind-the- her first opportunity to attend a make her debut at the Komische by the teacher”. However, she also positive manner, making it easier Bronwyn works with her teacher, of Haydn's Armida in 2016 and in scenes experiences to demonstrate master class and she found the Oper in Berlin. acknowledges that “it is a very for the scholars to accept each esteemed tenor Glenn Winslade in an October I will return to sing the title the impact our heroes are making. process fascinating. Yvonne was A MEZZO valuable exercise for both singers suggestion with the poise that open singing lesson. It’s clear that the Begg Award will role in Handel's Esther in Canberra “truly sparkling in her presence, One such occasion was a recent and audience”. The experience can they did. Is there such grace and be put to good use in helping Emily for Tobias Cole’s ‘Handel in the yet so focused on each scholar’s master class in Sydney conducted also be “encouraging for singers and humility in the corporate world?” she prepare for these and other exciting Theatre’. performance and personality, ASCENDING – THE by celebrated Australian soprano obviously intriguing for supporters wonders! career opportunities on the horizon. imparting many practical and Yvonne Kenny AM with Sharolyn to get an insight into the potential of Congratulations Emily — we look memorable techniques. Sitting there With so much learning and insight, Amina Edris, Soprano (2015) Kimmorley AM at the piano. the young singers, and of what goes DAME HEATHER forward to sharing the journey with in the audience”, Diane adds, “one you! I am currently nearing the end of my two-year residency with the PAST RECIPIENTS Adler Fellowship Program for young BEGG MEMORIAL artists with the San Francisco OF THE DAME Opera and look forward to a variety HEATHER BEGG of performance and competition A SENSE OF AWARD 2017 opportunities. I am approaching my MEMORIAL AWARD final assignment with bittersweet It is with great excitement Emily is “incredibly touched to be the emotions as I take on the cover of Samuel Dundas, Baritone (2013) COMMUNITY recipient of this meaningful award”. the title role of Massenet’s Manon, that we announce the fifth The Heather Begg Memorial Award She acknowledges Dame Heather an opera that I love so dearly, but was instrumental in enabling me We have a fond saying at recipient of the esteemed Begg as “a singer who valued hard I’m also saying goodbye to this to go overseas to study. Often Dame Heather Begg Memorial work and thorough preparation in program shortly after the season Melba Opera Trust: “Once a scholarships are geared towards order that she might fully inhabit and ends in December. It has been such Melba, always a Melba”. It Award to be alumna mezzo- younger, developing singers, so to be express the inner lives of the roles a fulfilling journey for me and an soprano Emily Edmonds. supported as an older, professional, may read as a lofty sentiment, and narrator Stephen McIntyre to getting everything right, and his renowned Australian opera singers, duets with Stacey “motivating she performed. She is an inspiration incredible learning experience. developing singer was a great but our approach deliberately and complemented by musical attention to detail”. Morgan added, soprano Cheryl Barker AO and and uplifting” and “an experience This annual award was established in all that she believed in as an Although I am fortunate enough opportunity. I studied Italian in intends to nurture a vibrant highlights. In July, the MRC “And to cap it all off, having the baritone Peter Coleman-Wright AO. to cherish”. And then to be able through Dame Heather Begg’s artist”. So for Emily, “to represent to be part of a paid young artist Sicily, worked with renowned Italian performance featured alumni fabulous Melba community there To fully complete the ensemble, to watch Cheryl and Peter sing a estate and upholds the legacy of Dame Heather’s continued legacy program, there are so many added and valuable community teachers in Verona and Bologna and Morgan Balfour (soprano) and to support us made it even more the performance was expertly complete scene from Puccini’s the internationally-renowned New is truly an honour”. It also means Jeremy Kleeman, Baritone (2016) expenses for things that are crucial which supports our scholars then studied with Yvonne Kenny AM Matthew Reardon (tenor), together enjoyable. I felt very fortunate to accompanied on piano by Melba’s Tosca made him even more inspired Zealand mezzo-soprano by providing a lot to the young mezzo that the for career development that many In August this year, I sang the role of and conductor Richard Hetherington and everyone that is involved. with current scholar Daniel have taken part in the evening”. very own Artistic Advisor, Sharolyn “Having the opportunity to work with a $25,000 grant to support the award is “a connection to home young singers are not able to afford. Collatinus in Benjamin Britten's The in London. Then in 2015 I studied We think it is a unique Carison (baritone). At the piano Kimmorley AM. artists who are further along their artistic development of a gifted and to Melba Opera Trust who were The Dame Heather Begg Memorial Morgan has just started the final Rape of Lucretia, a co-production in Berlin, learning German and strength and one that we was repetiteur Jonathan Wilson, respective journeys really motivates young Australian or New Zealand so instrumental in my early career Award has helped me tremendously year of her Master’s degree in Opera Peter understands well the value between Sydney Chamber coaching with Australian conductor our Margaret Schofield Opera me to work on my craft. I got the opera singer. development”. during my time in San Francisco, cherish. at the San Francisco Conservatory of young artists having a variety Opera and Victorian Opera. This Nicholas Carter. Scholarship recipient for the second sense it was also an interesting allowing me to have the freedom to of Music studying with César Ulloa of opportunities to learn from their For the last two years Covent Garden As a performer, Emily values “the work is notoriously difficult to The precious threads that weave year in a row. He commented that experience for the audience to see a travel for auditions, competitions, Since returning to Australia, I’ve and has been cast as Rodelinda in more experienced colleagues: in London has been Emily’s artistic ability to communicate clearly, present, though challenging and the fabric of our community is it was “an absolute pleasure to current scholar, an alumna and two add extra coachings and lessons, all been very busy. Highlights in 2016 Handel’s Rodelinda and as Ortensia/ home as a member of the Jette with courage and with clarity of rewarding, and exactly the kind of what makes it so special. Our perform with Melba alumni and a I remember my own beginnings. Melba mentors sharing the stage.” without financial stress. I am forever included playing the role of Marcello Eustacia/Ettalina in Musto’s Parker Young Artists Program. Begg intention”. She therefore sees thought-provoking and intensely singers build a network of peers, current scholar” for this occasion. Being able to study with the late grateful to have been a recipient in Puccini’s La bohème in the Bastianello. She is also busy Stacey Alleaume echoed the Trustee Moffatt Oxenbould AM “language study, thorough musical considered art that I want to be but also learn from interacting “I think it’s very important for Sir Peter Pears CBE (English tenor) of this award and to have had the Hennessy series at Vietnam’s Hanoi preparing for upcoming external sentiments of Peter and Damian, shared that, in selecting Emily, “we preparation, lifelong technical involved in creating. In presenting with Melba alumni who are further scholars past and present to work and the late Sir Geraint Evans ability to pursue many opportunities Opera House, which is a miniature auditions, so it will be a full year for recognising that the experience of were very aware that she would be development and an ever-developing dramatic stories of this kind, along the journey. Melba alumni together”, Jonathan said, ‘because (Welsh bass-baritone) directed me that would otherwise not have been version of the Palais Garnier in Paris! her. However, having held the Amelia performing with professional singers the first mezzo-soprano to receive freedom of the physical body as one is faced with massive vocal begin to adopt the role of mentor, it forges professional and personal to a complete network of artists I possible. I also sang Papageno in Mozart’s Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship in when she was younger “encouraged the Begg Award, and that she has vital components of artistry”. This challenges which require constant an aspect that they relished when relationships that will be most useful might never otherwise have had the The Magic Flute for the New Zealand 2015, she still finds time to keep in me to want to excel further and already been engaged to sing with award will allow her “to continue work and refinement to do them they were scholars themselves. Our into the future, particularly as we chance to see and hear. As a young Opera, and the Reporter in Watkins touch with Mary-Jane Joscelyne, gave me inspiration, as well as goals several companies in which Dame living out these values at a time in justice. Thanks to the Begg Award, experienced mentors have years continue to make inroads into the performer at Covent Garden standing and John’s Sydney Opera House – the whom Morgan acknowledges as and direction – it still has the same Heather sang in the early stages of my career when it may otherwise I was able to take time away from of wisdom that they are eager to profession. This sense of community alongside some of these great Opera. This year, I recently performed “one of the most amazing ladies effect!” her international career’. be challenging to dedicate performing last year to focus on share with eager young scholars and is sometimes lacking in an industry singers makes one ‘raise the game’, in ‘Opera under the Stars’ in Broome, I’ve ever met! One of the best things resources to consistent growth and studying vocal technique with some are engaged to ‘give back’. And, of that places such intense demands so to speak. Forming teaching and Stacey’s hope that one day she Moffatt adds that “while Emily played Moralès and Le Dancaïre in about Melba Opera Trust is that as development”. She plans to use of the best teachers overseas. My course, our supporters who not only on those who take part in it.” mentoring relationships with highly- can be “as inspirational as past has already achieved much in her a concert version of Bizet’s Carmen scholars, you are introduced to the the resources the award bestows three-month study trip focussed provide generous financial aid, but experienced artists is vital. Young mentors have been to me”, is already young career, it is desirable that, in Hobart, sang Harašta in Victorian For Morgan, it was a welcome incredible people who have enabled to continue intensive study of the mainly on Italy and New York, where enthusiastically invest their time, artists should work alongside those happening, it seems. She has been as she undertakes major roles with Opera’s production of Janácek’s opportunity to work with Daniel you to be part of the program”. operatic languages, for singing I worked with teachers including interest and delight in observing who have trodden the boards and involved in the now more frequent major companies, she can continue Cunning Little Vixen and was Silvio again. They were scholars together Morgan and Mary-Jane keep in lessons and musical coaching, to Stelia Doz, Sherman Lowe, David and helping the development of our know what they are talking about: industry chats between alumni and to work at the highest levels with in Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci for in Daniel’s first year (2015) “it was regular contact, and Mary-Jane support her preparation of future Jones and Neil Semer. Since then scholars. how to pace oneself in performance, current scholars being included well-regarded teachers and coaches Janet Todd, Soprano (2014) Opera Australia. And among other really fun to slip back into our attends every concert she can. “She roles and for sessions with world I have been regularly working with deal with directors and conductors, in the Mentor Program in 2017. with whom she has been associated engagements for 2018, I’ll take This sense of Melba community has Mozart partnership to perform was even the first person to call me leaders in acting and movement. Neil Semer on Skype (and in person I remain extremely thankful for the get through performances when “Sharing knowledge is so important”, as a member of the Jette Parker on the role of Prosdocimo in OA’s been highlighted through two recent ‘Crudel, perchè finora’ fromLe on my birthday this year!” exclaimed Emily also feels strongly about the when he visited Australia) and with generosity of the Dame Heather one is not in top form and deal with she stressed. ‘We Melba alumni Young Artists Program. We believe production of Rossini’s The Turk in Melba events: a performance of nozze di Figaro”, she said. She also Morgan. Raymond Lawrence in Melbourne. Begg Memorial Award which stress and pressure. have had the opportunity to work that the award to Emily will certainly need “to give back to or enhance the Nights at the Opera in the Salon of appreciated the chance to catch contributed to my studies at the Italy and will sing Marcello again in The annual Opera Night at The or study with some of the world’s fulfil Dame Heather’s wish that truly communities in which we live and Along with the Britten project, I have the Melbourne Recital Centre and the up with her “wonderful friend and As a first-year scholar, Damian Manhattan School of Music in New the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour Australian Club demonstrated the most acclaimed professionals, and gifted Australian and New Zealand work” and would like to consider maintained a very busy schedule annual Opera Night of the Australian colleague Matthew” and especially Arnold experienced the event as a York where I completed my Master production of La bohème. full extent of Melba community, it is a duty to pass on information artists be assisted to give their best ways in which she is able “to this year. I performed the roles of Club. enjoyed hearing him sing with Daniel “unique performance opportunity of Music degree over two years. I remain deeply grateful for Heather with many donors attending to and experience we’ve learned along when undertaking the challenges of contribute to the musical community the duet ‘Au fond du temple saint’ to be able to sing alongside rising Badger and Priest in Janáček’s The education I received there was Begg's legacy and to have been Nights at the Opera is a program of enjoy performances by current the way to the new generation of important artistic opportunities.” as a whole through the development from Bizet’s The Pearlfishers. Though star Stacey Alleaume and Australian Cunning Little Vixen with Victorian absolutely world class with some deemed worthy of this generous entertaining anecdotes recounted scholar Damian Arnold (tenor) with performers – this is how the art form and freedom of time” that this award she’d not met Jonathan before, opera royalty Peter Coleman-Wright Opera, premiered a new work Double of the most sought-after teachers Award. by eminent Australian pianist alumna Stacey Alleaume (soprano) continues to improve in all facets.’ allows her. she “really admired his dedication and Cheryl Barker”. He found singing alongside Melba mentors and Alumna Emily Edmonds ©

Page 8 The Melba - Magazine of Melba Opera Trust Edition 17 Spring 2017 Image above LtoR: Jonathan Wilson, Morgan Balfour, Daniel Carison, Matthew Reardon Page 9 THIRD TIME’S A CHARM Soprano Zoe Drummond is The three years spent travelling incredibly excited. I had just finished needed. The freedom towards my very hard at the moment, it feels a completing her third year as between two cities also gave me my honour’s thesis, had performed artistic development is something I little like the calm before the storm. some insight into what it is like to my final university recital and had no will never take for granted. Each of these forthcoming a Melba Scholar, having held live as a touring artist – looking after idea what to do next. Melba came at Another highlight of my third year adventures requires significant the Dame Nellie Melba Opera my vocal health while flying, sorting a time when I felt I was a competent was to visit Melba’s cottage and preparation. Probably the best way Scholarship and Patrick & out the logistics of living out of a singer and performer, but I wasn’t estate, Coombe and to sing for her to demonstrate the impact of the suitcase (particularly having 'crease- quite sure how to progress into being Vivian Gordon Award since great great granddaughter, The Hon. Melba program is for me to give you proof' performance wear), and the artist I strived to be. During the 2015. As she embarks on Saffron Foster. A beautiful way to an insight into how I prepare. Today, how to make dinner using minimal first year, I was shown the numerous feel connected and pay respects to for example, I wrote out the text of further study overseas, we appliances! facets that make up this profession, the woman herself. a scene for Guildhall and marked it asked her to reflect on her and I was given information and On a more personal note – after up in the style of language coach time with Melba Opera Trust. tools about how to advance in How has the transition between being moving to Sydney from Melbourne Teresa Desmarchelier. I then these areas. The program teaches a Melba scholar and paid professional What experiences have you had in for my undergraduate degree, I sadly deconstructed the dramatic action you everything you didn’t know been so far? your three years as a scholar that saw a lot less of my family who live according to what I learnt from you needed to know. have particularly helped shape or in Ballarat. My Melba commitments Very smooth! At the beginning of Chuck Hudson and Lindy Hume. complement your journey, both made it possible to see my sisters I wasn’t necessarily overwhelmed… my time with Melba most of my After scanning the Castel IPA on my personally and professionally? and parents more regularly and for but I did approach each ‘subject’ performance opportunities came iPad (technology skills courtesy of them to attend many performances, quite academically. Looking back from the Melba Artists performance Sharolyn Kimmorley), I made my way Personally, I have so much to which was wonderful. now, I feel my first year as a scholar program with a few external to the practice room and, once I’d thank Melba Opera Trust for. I feel was like going over my life with a commitments. But by the end of my set some goals (Time Management), as though I have hit the jackpot The support of the people involved fine-tooth comb – really looking at three years I was employed as a full- including delegating rest time each year in terms of my cohort of with Melba Opera Trust – both my strengths and weaknesses, and time singer. My Melba training has (Vocal Health), I pieced together fellow scholars. Everyone has been mentors and staff – has been exploring the resources available. aided every performance. information from all the Trust’s so kind, motivated and talented, incredible. I have been fortunate to I learnt so much that year, both amazing singing professionals and and I’ve made many lifelong friends have regular contact with Sharolyn Where to from here? personally and professionally – and applied this to my new music. After through the program. I think one Kimmorley AM, who guides, counsels my concert repertoire list doubled For a new chapter of my singing my practice, I sent a few professional of the reasons singing is such a and teaches me in world-class in size. career, in September I moved emails (Negotiating) and arranged wonderfully strange career is that as standards. And the Melba staff to London to commence my a time to Skype with my German soon as you meet someone new, you have always been willing to assist This time to learn and self-reflect scholarship for the Master of Opera language tutor (Artist Development BEING MELBA have to become very comfortable with any questions or issues. It has stood me in incredible stead for Performance at the Guildhall School Program). Then I got ready to go very quickly in order to work been reassuring to have a well- my second year with the Trust, of Music and Drama. I’ll be studying to a function (hopefully, Style!) together. Working in the theatre not informed, well-connected team on when I began to put these skills with Melba Mentor Yvonne Kenny where I was introduced to many only requires you to be very open my side. One of the mottos of the into practice and fill any gaps in my AM! Before the end of this year, I’ll new industry people (Protocol and giving, but also to have an acute Trust is ‘Once a Melba, always a development. A musical change also travel to New York for a month- and Etiquette, Networking). It is In a serendipitous twist, to understand Melba’s character awareness of your own personality Melba’, and this certainly rings true. for me was that I decided to focus long study trip thanks to the Lady incredible how these skills filter into as a “gracious, incredible, fiery and aura. Melba Opera Trust There is a sense of camaraderie on roles in which I could be cast earlier this year esteemed Fairfax New York Scholarship that I every aspect of our lives – and this woman”, as well as her challenges combines our real-life/real-time that connects the alumni, and early in my career, such as the Australian soprano Emma Emma Matthews as 'Melba' won last year from Opera Foundation was a day with no actual performing! and vulnerabilities. This led Emma scholar relationships with specific everywhere I have travelled I have soubrette Mozart characters. It was for Young Australians. Matthews found herself to respect the Dame greatly for mentor training in 'people and self- been welcomed with open arms and particularly interesting to sing for And finally, have there been any mentoring our Melba scholars her determination and ambition skills', such as performance anxiety, flooded with advice and kindness. artists such as Daria Masiero one What productions are in store for you, unexpected opportunities that have whilst herself preparing to in having developed such an negotiation, wellbeing and goal- year, and then again the next, and and how you are preparing for these? proven especially rewarding? Over my three years, I was involved impressive career as a woman in setting. I have learnt so much about to receive feedback on my progress. ‘be’ the great Dame in a new in many Melba Artist gigs – in I will be heading back to Sydney at Before being a Melba scholar, I an era when this was unusual. “The myself and feel like I have both the musical production, Melba. situation with her husband, losing churches, board rooms, mansions, I also enjoyed considerable success the end of September to resume my never thought I’d be singing for tools and knowledge to make the contract with Opera Australia on the With a story written by Nicholas her son for so long and the stigma of lounge rooms, recital halls and even in the Australian competition circuit some of the world’s most talented most of situations. ‘fun’ production of Two Weddings, Christo based on Ann Blainey’s being a working mum in that day and in the snow. Having a constant during my second year, performing performers: Renée Fleming, Yvonne One Bride at the Sydney Opera House biography I am Melba and music by age must have been awful. She was As an interstate scholar, the time stream of varied work consolidated as a finalist and winning numerous Kenny AM, Daria Masiero, The Dame and this time I’ll be performing the Johannes Luebbers, Melba enjoyed apparently ‘booed’ by the audience I spent in Melbourne during the a long repertoire list of opera ‘hits’, awards, notably the Lady Fairfax Felicity Lott, Simon O’Neill, Peter role of the bride(Giroflé/Girofla) for a very successful, extended season during a performance of Donizetti’s Mentor Blocks was an absolute which will be used time and time New York Scholarship from the Coleman-Wright, Deborah Humble the entire season. After this, I return in August/September at the intimate Lucia di Lammermoor and accused blessing. I tried to organise all again. It also instilled a productive Opera Foundation for Young and most importantly, the incredible to London to continue studies at Hayes Theatre in Sydney. Cast in of being a terrible mother – her life my administrative tasks before practice ethic, confidence to talk on Australians. Sharolyn Kimmorley AM! I believe I left Sydney, so that my time in stage (and mingle afterwards), and the Guildhall, will sing in a concert my entire Melba experience has the role of the mature aged Melba, was so public!” Melba also had an During this third year, I had less face- Melbourne could be focused totally to have a good rapport with pianists of opera scenes (I am involved in been unexpected and especially Emma was elated when we spoke to impact on Emma much earlier in to-face time at the Trust but made on Melba Opera Trust. This included and fellow singers. Hamlet and Idomeneo) and to begin rewarding. I always knew the her during the run. “I wake up tired, her career through the mini-series the most of my scholarship funds making sure I was always prepared to cover the role of Sister Constance program was highly esteemed and but excited that I’m on again tonight Melba starring Yvonne Kenny AM. It’s likely that each year delivered a for private artistic development for sessions and had researched the in the second year’s production very beneficial for young singers, but – it’s a great feeling, and a huge Before watching this, the young different experience based on where – focused and intensive, self- Alumna Shakira Tsindos with Emma Matthews necessary topics – and mentors! It of Poulenc’s Dialogues of the I honestly didn’t realise at that time honour. The whole thing’s a joy!” singer hadn’t realised it was possible you were personally and artistically. devised learning periods to prepare also enabled me to schedule some Carmelites. When I skip across the how broadly this program supports, That she gets to play a character to have an operatic career and was Could you describe your experience thoroughly for external professional ‘off’ time to lounge about and enjoy Atlantic to take up the Lady Fairfax challenges and educates young her own age is an added challenge more interested in musical theatre. of this? engagements and auditions. It has some mental and vocal rest to be Award, I’ll be learning various new singers about the profession. Every and a bonus. “I’m used to being 18 Melba was “a real inspiration to been a very busy year professional fresh and switched on for the next When I was first accepted as a roles. It is wonderful to have such step of the way, Melba exceeded my on stage, twirling around and having me as someone who travelled the for me, so I have really appreciated day. Melba scholar in late 2014 for the a variety of music to concentrate (already very high) expectations. that youthful energy, but I’m having world and had a wonderful life as a Melba’s access to the best coaches from old recordings, Emma points 2015 intake, I was awestruck and on – something for all moods of to give myself more grandness and classical singer”. and teachers to see as often as I practice. And although I’m working posture to show I’m the diva!” out that it is possible to hear the line Damian Arnold with Emma Matthews With this background knowledge in in Melba’s interpretations. “Certainly The show is an interesting blend place, Emma particularly focused on when Melba performs the “Vissi of musical theatre and opera, with the star’s singing and ornamentation d’arte” aria from Puccini’s Tosca, she Annie Aitken singing and acting the in preparing for this role, a process sings it very cleanly, with minimal role of the younger Melba, and Emma she found intriguing. “Melba portamento. Very different to the singing the operatic arias that Melba would do a beautiful cadenza that way bigger voices sing it now." And With her recent appointment as herself often performed “You get expressed the mood. She didn’t tend Melba worked with Puccini, “so Head of Classical Voice at the a kind of stereo effect of a person. to sing a lot of top notes because he must have liked what she was Western Australian Academy of When Annie is talking, I might be it was considered indulgent and doing!” said Emma, who particularly Performing Arts (WAAPA) from sitting in a chair just remembering. distasteful, so I’m using some of enjoyed singing this aria, as Tosca is 2018, Emma plans to formalise the was celebrated for her mentoring For example, there’s a scene where her cadenzas and some of my not a role she had taken on before. Marchesi technique as the language and support of young proteges. Melba is breaking up with the great own.” Judging by reviews of the for WAAPA singing students to learn. The connections between Melba Melba scholars benefitted from love of her life, Philippe d’Orléans show, Emma’s singing had a great This new role represents an exciting and Matthews do not end there. As Emma’s love of teaching in a master (exiled pretender to the French impact, with one critic saying he was development in Emma’s career was Melba, Emma was trained in the class earlier this year, generously throne), and I sit there reflecting “strangely aware of the fillings in my as she is “very passionate about vocal technique devised by German hosted by Deputy Chair, Kate with a sense of regret, but knowing I teeth – such is the vocal power of teaching, which I love as much as mezzo-soprano and singing teacher Shelmerdine, at Cranlana. “I loved did the right thing and then I get up soprano Emma Matthews”. singing. It gives me as much joy to Mathilde Marchesi. “In fact my the day and I love what Melba to sing….the arias interweave very share what I’ve learned and to see It seems as if this role was made for teacher’s teacher’s teacher’s teacher scholars have” said Emma. “It’s such cleverly with the action, a bit like a a young singer blossom as it does Emma, particularly since she has was Nellie Melba and now I teach an important program in grooming jigsaw puzzle.” for me to sing on stage. I hope I can sung similar repertoire to Melba and the technique myself to my private and polishing young singers before make a difference.” A sentiment also Reading several books about Melba notes similarities in their voices. students”, Emma notes. they go into industry and I’m thrilled shared with Dame Nellie Melba who over the years has helped Emma While it is not always easy to tell to be associated with it.”

Page 10 Images of Emma Matthews as 'Melba' credited to Clare Hawley. The Melba - Magazine of Melba Opera Trust Edition 17 Spring 2017 Zoe Drummond, Dame Nellie Melba Scholarship, Patrick & Vivian Gordon Award Page 11 LETTER FROM ABROAD: JADE MOFFAT

Jade was the recipient we only had 10 days in total to working with a group of incredible of the Dame Nellie Melba stage and rehearse before opening leaders including baritone Sir night! But the incredible energy that Thomas Allen CBE, mezzo-soprano Scholarship and the Patrick everyone brought made it a great Ann Murray DBE and Scottish & Vivian Gordon Award (2013 success. accompanist Malcolm Martineau & 2014) OBE. Samling is a wonderful As I write this I am preparing to go organisation here in the UK that aims Hello Everyone! on tour with Glyndebourne Festival to nurture young classical singers Opera, singing in the chorus for It’s lovely to be able to write to you and accompanists, and is widely Mozart’s Così fan tutte and, most from London where I've just finished regarded as a springboard into the excitingly, for Hamlet, a brand a wonderful and challenging two operatic profession. new opera written by Australian years at Guildhall School of Music composer Brett Dean. We will be There is a wonderful community of and Drama in the opera course, travelling to Canterbury, Woking, Aussie singers over here in the UK working with Yvonne Kenny AM. The Norwich and Milton Keynes where I and I find myself often bumping into time has really flown by and I feel look forward to making the most of fellow Melbas who are all doing very incredibly privileged to have had this being in the countryside! exciting things. I think we are all opportunity. Since moving to London so lucky to be a part of the Melba I have learnt and grown so much as I am also really looking forward to family! a young musician, as well as adding making my Wigmore Hall recital quite a few important roles to my CV. debut in October with Independent I would like to take this opportunity Opera, where I will be singing a to say thank you for your continued My final role as part of the course lovely selection of Brahms Lieder interest in my performing and was Zenobia in Handel’s Radamisto and a couple of cheeky Kurt Weill progress here in London. I'm keeping and I adored working on some songs. my fingers crossed that a trip baroque repertoire after a year home to Australia is on the cards of singing predominantly new Recently I found out that I’ve been sometime next year. and contemporary opera. Once fortunate enough to be selected Radamisto closed, I headed north to as a Samling Artist for 2018 which All my love, Congleton where I sang Marcellina in includes heading to Cumbria in Jade X Le nozze di Figaro for Clonter Opera. February for an intensive week of It was a whirlwind process because coachings and master classes,

SUPPORTERS OF MELBA OPERA TRUST

PATRONS-IN-CHIEF Dr Michael Troy Ann Blainey Dr Sue McNicol QC Mentor Program made possible by: The Hon. Linda Dessau AM, Governor of Victoria Michael Wheelahan SC & Cathryn Wheelahan Caroline Brain Ross McPherson & His Honour Judge Anthony Howard Anonymous (1) Jonathan & Anne Breadmore Fiona Menzies FOUNDING PATRONS MAESTRO CIRCLE ($5,000 – $9,999) Prof Henry & Jenny Burger Dr Bryan & Debora Mendelson Mary-Jane Joscelyne Jim Allen OAM The Hon Justice David Byrne & Jenni Harris James Mighell SC The late Pamela, Lady Vestey Judy Allen Adrienne & the late Ross Cameron Margaret & Patrick Mills Chris Arnold & Margot Costanzo Loreen & John S Chambers Diane & Tim Morris HONORARY PATRON Chernov Family Dr Kenneth Muirden AO & Lesley Muirden The Hon. Saffron Foster Liz Bate & the late John Bate OAM The Hon Justice David Beach & Marea Beach Mitchell Chipman Margaret Nevett IMPRESARIO ($500,000 and above) Marc Besen AC & Eva Besen AO Janet & John Clark AM Mrs Rosemary Norbury Joseph Sambrook & Mary-Jane Gething Dr Dianne & Lino Bresciani, Youth Music Jillian Cobcroft Geoffrey Norris John & Elizabeth Wright-Smith Foundation of Australia Jim Cousins AO & Libby Cousins Stephen O’Meara QC & Kate Galvin PATRON ($250,000 – $499,999) Elizabeth Brown Caroline & Glenn Crane Sarah Patterson Warwick & Paulette Bisley Sandy Clark & Marie McDonald Mr John Craven Joan Pigdon • John and Elizabeth Wright-Smith Michael J Crouch AO & Shaneen Crouch Roger & Catherine Poole GRAND CIRCLE ($100,000 – $249,999) Catherine & Mark Clisby • Reilly & Logie Smith Mentor Endowment Arthur Day AM & Hilary Day Joy Potter Charles Allen AO & Jocelyn Allen Ann Cole Joan Darling Probus Club of Melbourne Inc • Lady Southey AC A/Prof Andrew Cochrane Kevin & Margaret Collecutt Ros & John Dowling Clare & David Pullar Dr Fiona Cochrane Rosie & the late Dr Peter Cunningham • Hamer Family Fund Terry & Linda Elliott Tony & Elizabeth Rayward Joseph Diflo David Curtain QC & Sally Curtain • Tallis Foundation Jack & Vivien Fajgenbaum Kenneth R Reed AM Diana Gibson AO Jane Douglass AM William J Forrest AM Janice Roberts & Achim Leistner • Stuart Leslie Foundation Roz Zalewski-Ruskin & Jeremy Ruskin QC John Kiely & the late Lorraine Elliot AM Dr Helen Ferguson The Hon Saffron Foster Alexander & Rosemary Roche DRESS CIRCLE ($50,000 – $99,999) Catherine Freeman Peter Garnick Elizabeth & Tom Romanowski Philanthropic Partners Janet Calvert-Jones AO & John Calvert-Jones AM Fleur Gibbs Annie Gibson Dr Paul & Gay Rosen The late Lady April Hamer Peter & Elizabeth Goodman John & Jo Grigg Margaret S Ross AM Peter Laver AM & Anne Laver The Hon Peter Heerey AM QC & Sally Heerey Dr R & Ms K H Grinberg The late Pamela Ruskin Peter Reilly & Linton Soderholm Gill & Giles Hunt Elisabeth Guinness Mr Nick Ruskin & Dr Annette Shiell Andrew Sisson Darvell Hutchinson AM & Mrs Barbara Hugh Hallard Dr David Scott AM & Dr Lyndal Scott GALLERY CIRCLE ($25,000 – $49,999) Hutchinson Margaret & Trevor Holborow The Hon. Justice Melanie Sloss SC Rose Downer & John Downer AM Mary-Jane Joscelyne Dr Sam & Margaret Howes Prof Richard Smallwood AO & Carol Smallwood Louise Gourlay OAM Anne & Dr Milan Kantor Chrissy Hughes Smedley Family Peter Griffin AM & Terry Swann Alison Hyams John E Smith Bryan Keon-Cohen AM QC & June Keon-Cohen • Cochrane Schofield Fund Peter Hansen OAM & Neroli Hansen Her Honour Judge Kathryn Kings Phillip D Isaacs OAM & Susie Gibbons Russell & Margaret Smith Ian & Dale Johnson Dr Peter A Kingsbury Cynthia Jackson AM Jo & the late John Strutt • Gwenda & John Lloyd Memorial Scholarship David Jones Mary-Ruth & Peter McLennan Barry & Prue Johnson Hugh & Elizabeth Taylor Fund Kate & Stephen Shelmerdine Susan Morgan Lewis & Paula Johnson Rob & Kyrenia Thomas Anonymous (1) The late Dame Elisabeth Murdoch AC; DBE William M.P Jones Rob & Ruth Thomas Professional Partners George & Grace Kass Dr George Tippett BALCONY CIRCLE ($10,000 – $24,999) Graeme Parncutt Suzanne Kirkham Sylvia Urbach The late Betty Amsden AO The late Nancy Peterson and daughter, Dale Anthony Knight OAM & Beverley Knight Alexander G. White James & Judith Beattie Judith Robinson & Michael Robinson AO Peter Kolliner OAM & Barbara Kolliner Helen Woods & Lewis Rowell Peter & Jan Clark Margot & Warwick Ross Lynne Landy & John Landy AC MBE Barbara Yeoh AM Ernest Dawes OBE & Nola Dawes Aubrey Schrader Joy Laurence Anonymous (11) Val Diamond & John Funder AC Mr Phillip and Mrs Sue Schudmak John & Erin Lidgerwood Ian Dickson & Reg Holloway Graham Sellars-Jones FRIENDS CIRCLE (All gifts up to $999) Julie & Athol Lidgett Frank & Judith Firkin Richard Stanley QC & Sue Stanley Melba Opera Trust also appreciates the Janet Limb Nance Grant AM MBE & Ian Harris Gillian Storey generosity of over 200 supporters in our Dr Bruce & Dianne Livett Event Partner Hans & Petra Henkell The Lord and Lady Vestey Friends Circle. Colin Lovitt QC Elizabeth Lithgow Prof Mel & Nina Waters Noreen Maher MELBA’S WILL BEQUEST CIRCLE Robert G Logie-Smith AM & Sue Logie-Smith Paul Worthington Peter Mander & Walter van Nieuwkuyk Dr Patricia Armstrong-Grant OBE Patricia McKenzie Anonymous (1) Suzanne Maple-Brown Michael Bertram Rosie McLeish & the late Dr Jack McLeish MELBA CIRCLE ($1,000 – $4,999) Marin Charitable Trust Mary Ryllis Clark Recognised support as of September 2017 The Hon Justice John & Mrs Judith Middleton C A Alston David & Jane Martin Garry A Fehring Tom & Ruth O’Dea Dr Patricia Armstrong-Grant OBE Denys & Ingeborg McCullough Mary-Jane Joscelyne Lady Potter AC CMRI Philip Bacon AM Ian McDonald Ann McFarling Lady Southey AC Judy & Michael Begg Ann & the late Ian McFarling Anonymous (2) Jennifer & David Sutherland

www.melbaoperatrust.com.au