Home Sweet Home for SiobhÁn Stagg

2 014 Alumni News: On the road with Opera Australia Coombe – The Melba Estate opens to the public Plus lots of Scholar News spring 11 spring edition

Alexandra Flood performing at De Bortoli Yarra Valley Magazine of the Melba Opera Trust The Melba SPRING 2014 The Melba SPRING 2014

A Note From The Scholar Managing Director Siobhán Updates 2014 Page 2 returns to Cranlana – A Note from the Our General Manager Amy Black is Managing Director overseas – more on this in a moment Melba – About Melba Opera Trust – 2014 Melba Scholars – and thus I have the privilege Page 3 of welcoming you to this spring Scholars – Siobhán returns to Cranlana – Scholar Updates edition of The Melba. Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholar from Page 4 Dame Nellie Melba Scholarship While 2014 has so far provided much leading Australian arts companies – More Scholar Updates Patrick & Vivian Gordon Award 2009-2012 Siobhán Stagg, now at the outset to celebrate, sadly we also reflect are in development to create exciting – A Manic Month of Mentoring [Photograph of Jeremy Kleeman performing on the recent death of Trust Council performance opportunities in 2015 for – Melba Mentors at Mantra Jade Moffat of an exciting international career, is in Into the Woods kindly provided by member Lorraine Elliott AM. My own our young singers. Watch this space... Victorian Opera/Jeff Busby] Page 5 no stranger to the Melba Opera Trust association with Lorraine dated back And speaking of precious assets, – A Scholar’s Diary Jeremy Kleeman to her time as a parliamentarian with increasing the size of our endowment Amelia Joscelyne Memorial community. As the Melba Trust’s first – Impressions the Arts portfolio. I was struck by her is a priority second only to our remit Scholarship scholar, she was the first to experience • Performed the role of Marquis Page 6 passionate advocacy for the nobler to Dame Nellie to train young singers. D’Obiginy in La traviata for – Away with Words: Alexandra things that distinguish our species: Of course, the two objectives are Rebecca Gulinello our unique and ever-evolving program, Victorian Opera. Flood in Salzburg education, literature, music and the intimately entwined! Over the past arts in general. Lorraine was another the first to realise the Trust’s objective of • Performed the role of Rapunzel’s Page 7 12 months, the generosity of our Prince in Into the Woods for in the line of exceptional women supporters reached new heights. While feeding into international competitions, – On the Road who have featured in the history and John & Elizabeth Wright-Smith Victorian Opera. – Dame Heather Begg Award News this is a resounding vote of confidence, success of Dame Nellie Melba Opera we still have a fair way to go until Scholarship and our first scholar ‘ambassador’, • Won the Welsh Male Choir’s Page 8 Trust. our endowment is large enough to inspiring singers and other professionals Singer of the Year competition. – Home Sweet Home Brenton Spiteri fund our programs – let alone our • Has been cast in Victorian Opera’s – 2015 Audition Panel to become involved in our program. Ultimately, we judge our success by the trajectories of aspirations. 2015 productions of I puritani, Page 9 our current and former scholars. it is gratifying to Sweeney Todd and Seven Deadly The Trust is fiercely proud of its total Joseph Sambrook Opera – Heroic Singers Perform for reflect that, of the 28 singers who have participated in independence from government Sins. Heroic Tenor our program over the past 6 years, 12 are successfully funding – indeed Lorraine often Scholarship – Melba Artists: Bayside establishing themselves as international artists reminded us of the fickle nature of Currently on contract at the Deutsche opportunities are only really useful impressed! Another helpful element and Beyond Jeremy Kleeman and another 12 are professionally engaged with the public purse. As a consequence, Oper in Berlin, Siobhán was back if you are ready for them and can was the acting training. In the very Page 10 opera companies throughout Australia. several of we are vigilant for opportunities to downunder recently to visit family deliver the goods while coping busy German opera houses, rehearsal – Coombe: An Iconic Landmark our former scholars have generously shared their grow our support base. In this regard, and friends, and for several singing with the challenges as required. As time can feel slim, so one must be well Opens to the Public experiences with the Melba community; their our spirited program of friend-raising Harold Blair Opera Scholarship engagements. Particularly special was these exciting opportunities present prepared beforehand. I often recalled stories are featured in these pages. Page 11 in Sydney is generating a promising Shauntai Batzke a reception and soirée at Cranlana, the themselves, I’m always so glad that Chuck Hudson’s sessions on character – A Melba Medal source of new patronage. magnificent Toorak mansion owned I had access to the Mentor Program. development and role preparation, not – Welcome of Ross Elliott: While the Trust’s major focus is the On another front, several individuals by Melbourne’s preeminent Myer Its intensity and scope afforded me to mention the countless voice lessons, Our Newest Director provision of elite training here in family, generously hosted by Lady countless skills which have proved master classes and coaching sessions have arranged legacies via the Melba’s Ruskin Opera Award & Mel and – De Bortoli Delights Australia, our emerging international Will Bequest Program launched 12 Southey AC. Exceptional donors to the invaluable in my first year working in the Melba Trust facilitated. I’ve always Page 12 profile is creating some exciting months ago. Please get in touch if you Nina Waters Award Melba Trust, members of our recently- the European opera world.” appreciated my involvement with – An Evening of Opera opportunities. To this end, General would like to receive information on established bequest program Melba’s Melba Opera Trust, and in my first year [Photograph of Alexandra Flood in Manager Amy Black is currently Nikki Hill Will and some new friends gathered in as a full-time professional, I feel more La Cenerentola provided by Salzburger at Stowell Park Estate how you can also help to secure the Festpiele/Dorike Van Genderen] in Europe and the UK meeting future of Dame Nellie Melba Opera the gracious music room at Cranlana grateful than ever.” on the evening of Thursday 23 July with leading opera houses to Trust. It should not be forgotten that, as Alexandra Flood gather intelligence on young artist RJ Hamer Opera Scholarship to experience a program reflecting In the meantime, we remain most Dame Nellie Melba herself always opportunities and to forge beneficial Siobhán’s recent musical journeys and believed, to succeed one must be • Sang the role of Blonde in the relationships for the Trust. Amy is also grateful to our current and past donors Alexandra Flood triumphs throughout Europe, and her Salzburg Festival young artist and sponsors – the contents of this “more than a voice”. A singer must expanding our industry networks to homecoming to Australia. take every opportunity for further production of Die Entführung recruit leading professionals to our magazine are a testament to their aus dem Serail für Kinder, and investment. Lady Southey AC warmly welcomed development, have determination Mentor Program. Margaret Schofield Opera guests with a short history of Cranlana, and resilience, and must work hard. Clorinda in La Cenerentola für Kinder. Also covered Konstanze The important associations that Amy’s Peter Garnick Scholarship & Beleura-Tallis and expressed her respect for our One anecdote Siobhán shared on this Managing Director in Die Entführung. groundwork is yielding highlight one Opera Scholarship program as the next step for singers occasion is testament to this: of the Trust’s most valuable assets: preparing to become professionals on “After recently winning the Prize of the • Performed the role of Modistin a culture of collaboration. As an Matthew Reardon the world stage. General Manager Amy International Media-Jury at the Hans in the Salzburg Festival’s new example, new alliances with several Black introduced Siobhán, highlighting Gabor Belvedere Singing Competition production of Der Rosenkavalier, her role as a Trust ‘trail-blazer’ for the in Berlin, my boss (the Operndirektor directed by Harry Kupfer and many outstanding recent achievements at the Deutsche Oper Berlin) said he conducted by Franz Welser-Möst. of our scholars and alumni, including, was proud of me, and reported to • Commences a Master of Opera among many, our 2013 Herald Sun Aria my agent at the reception afterwards degree at the Munich Hochschule and 2014 Royal Opera Covent Garden that he’d been impressed that I didn’t für Musik und Theater / successes. She also acknowledged Lady get sick once all this year. This wasn’t Bayerische Theaterakademie Southey AC’s beneficent hospitality. quite true – I’d had my normal share in October. This newsletter is printed on Sovereign Offset derived from well-managed forests and other Accompanied by 2013 Melba Trust of colds and under-the-weather days, controlled sources certified against Forest Repetiteur Scholar Amir Farid, Siobhán but I was able to recover quickly and Stewardship Council ® standards, a non-profit organisation devoted to encouraging the performed a carefully-chosen musical continue my work, without the upper responsible management of the world’s forests. selection – a balance of operatic arias, powers realising! I think that’s key – it

Dame Nellie Melba Opera Trust About art song and a little jazz. Attendees isn’t about every day being perfect ABN 96 424 419 725 had the opportunity to hear her further and easy; it’s about building the Suite 501 434 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004 Phone (03) 9867 4833 Facsimile (03) 9867 3364 vocal development, and to learn tools, coping strategies, wisdom and www.melbaoperatrust.com.au something of the “whirlwind” of the resilience to be able to cope when you that fosters international artists. Copy and editing – Jillian Graham singer’s first season in Europe: do face those inevitable challenges Maintaining that quality is paramount, Melba Opera Trust along the way.” and we intend to continue developing Images by Les O’Rourke Photography “I gave some 50 performances in 12 unless otherwise credited different roles on the main stage at Though Siobhán sensibly took every The warmth of the reception Siobhán robust international networks so that our scholars and alumni are supported Design by Malt Creative Melba Opera Trust is Australia’s premier scholarship program the Deutsche Oper, as well as guest opportunity to learn from mentor and Amir received is indicative of the [Photograph of Shauntai Batzke in www.maltcreative.com.au in all aspects of their career.” for promising young opera singers. Driven by Dame Nellie appearances for Hamburg State Opera, sessions, naturally there were some relationships that continue with our Showboat kindly provided by The For more information relating to the Salzburg Festival and the Moscow particular highlights: alumni, and proves our fond saying, If you would like to make a personal Production Company/Jeff Busby] advertising within this publication Melba’s conviction “a beautiful voice is not enough”, the Symphony Orchestra. It’s a busy and “Once a Melba, always a Melba”. contribution, we invite you to consider please contact the Dame Nellie Melba “The public speaking workshops with shauntai Batzke Opera Trust. exciting time of my life, but also Melba Trust Board Chair Mr Robert a tax-deductible donation. Donations program nurtures artistic development alongside business incredibly demanding vocally, mentally Judith Field came to mind often this Logie-Smith made some concluding To unsubscribe in relation to receiving year. The art of introducing oneself can be made online • Performed in Short Black Opera’s this publication, please contact and physically with a lot of time spent remarks reflecting upon the recent www.melbaoperatrust.com.au/ Pecan Summer in Adelaide in July. the Dame Nellie Melba Opera Trust. training, mentoring and performance experience. We are the and one’s arias in concert is stepped in airports!” achievements of our scholars and support/, or by contacting us by up a level when you’re speaking • Just completed a season of next step for singers preparing to become professionals on alumni. telephone: 03 9867-4833. Siobhán is ever grateful for her time as German for a native audience! Though Show Boat with The Production the world stage. a Melba Opera Trust scholar: nervous at the prospect, I relished the “That’s a pretty powerful indication of Company at the State Theatre. “On several occasions over this last challenge and prepared my ‘Spiel’ how important this program is to the Inspiring Excellence – Realising Potential – Forging Careers year I found myself thinking how remembering Judith’s mantra, ‘Say future of opera in Australia, and it also thankful I was for my time with what you mean, and mean what you reflects your generosity. Collectively, the Melba Opera Trust. After all, say’. Fortunately, the Berlin locals were we have now established a program

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Scholar Updates A manic month A Scholar’s diary Scholars’ Impressions CONTINUED... of mentoring shauntai Jeremy Melba Mentor Block 5: Batzke Kleeman Master Class/Private Vocal (soprano) (Bass Coaching (Sylvia Greenberg & Baritone) From July 19 until 8 August, our singers experienced one David Aronson) “This workshop with Anna Sweeny was “Sylvia Greenberg of the Trust’s most action-packed mentoring periods ever. Hair & Make-Up great. I discovered and David Corinne Jones & that it takes a lot of Aronson have a During these three weeks, Mentor Blocks 4 and 5 of the Sharron McBeth hard work to make great dynamic seven in 2014 took place, with an impressive array of leading Private Vocal Coaching movement look easy and effortless! while working together – warm and Stefan Cassomenos We learnt how to glide along the stage welcoming, but ready to work on international and local artists lending their expertise to the with elegance and poise, and to use Movement & what needs to be fixed. I got a lot gowns and capes effectively – vital development of our young artists. Interpretation Workshop out of my private sessions with the information considering the costumes Chuck Hudson two especially. I really like the private we often have to wear in our chosen coaching setting because we can get rebecca gulinello Working at this pace is valuable Master Class (‘Audition Arias for a Public Speaking with Judith Field Public Speaking field. We workshopped the other down to basic details, whereas when experience in itself, providing singers European opera house’) and Private • Has now completed the season Matthew reardon Judith Field had a long history in Judith Field aspects of delivering arias – movement there’s an audience watching, I can’t of over 100 performances of La with the flavour of life as a professional Vocal Coaching Sessions with David education, primarily as a teacher, Industry Chat and acting, and I found this very help but try to entertain!” Cenerentola in primary schools • Performed in Short Black Opera’s artist in demand. And keeping on Aronson and Sylvia Greenberg before creating her own business Siobhán Stagg effective. I also learnt the importance all over Victoria for the Opera Pecan Summer in Adelaide in July. top of the timing and requirements Sylvia Greenberg has enjoyed an called ‘Direct Speech’. She teaches of being specific in thought and Australia Schools Company. • Was the ‘people’s choice’ award of the various sessions needs good outstanding career as a coloratura anyone and everyone how to stand up Etiquette & Protocol purpose.” organisation, which means being Susie Wilson • Completes 2014 studying in Italy winner of the 2015 German- soprano in European opera houses in front of a crowd and start talking. disciplined record-keepers and time “It was wonderful to learn how to Jade Moffat with international soprano Valeria Australian Opera Grant. and on recordings. Her husband, David apply make-up for performance, and managers – more worthy skills to Aronson, is a top repetiteur at the Industry Chat with Siobhán Stagg (Mezzo Esposito and renowned voice • Competed in the Opera and develop! discover that the secret to the right coach Maestro Carlo Morganti. Arts Support final at the Sydney Vienna Staatsoper and has also worked Siobhán Stagg was the recipient of the hairstyle is all in the preparation. It was soprano) as a conductor. Eisteddfod. Four-day Movement Workshop with Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship a practical session both for the stage in “It was really at Melba Opera Trust from 2009 to • Sang in the final of the Dame Joan Anna Sweeny for everyday attire, and it was also fun lovely to meet and Hair and Make-up with professional 2012. She is currently on contract at the Sutherland and Richard Bonynge and confidence-building!” chat with Siobhán Trained in Movement, Dance, Acting hair stylists and make-up artists Deutsche Oper in Berlin, and has many Bel Canto competition. and Music, Anna has over 40 years Corinne Jones and Sharron McBeth Stagg about her local and international performing experiences experience, having graduated from engagements. the Royal Central School of Speech Private Vocal Coaching with overseas. I was surprised to find out and Drama in 1961. It is her work with Melba Repetiteur Scholar Stefan Emily how opera houses operate in Europe, Etiquette and Protocol with Susie Edmonds how many shows there are each singers and in opera training that has Cassomenos, with David Aronson Wilson given her a unique global reputation. observing (Mezzo season, and how many opportunities Susie Wilson has many years soprano) there are for singers. Siobhán is a very Master Class at Cranlana and Private Five-day Movement and experience in training people from inspiring young artist, and talking with “Coaching with Coaching with Yvonne Kenny Interpretation Workshop with Chuck all walks of life in the finer points her has made travelling overseas seem David Aronson was Hudson of etiquette and protocol and runs very appealing and exciting, as well Yvonne Kenny AM is an Australian her own business, the Antoinette a complete privilege as making some of the challenging Based in New York City, Chuck soprano who has had a long and Champagne Finishing School. – his approach to realities of the industry very clear.” successful career in Australia and Hudson has directed award-winning working is thrilling. He has a wealth of nikki Hill overseas, performing for opera opera productions at many major experience and knowledge, and has a “As a Queenslander I have seen Vocal Coaching with Johannes Johannes Fritzsch conduct on many • Will be appearing in ‘Melba at companies such as Opera Australia, international companies. In addition Fritzsch way of making music come alive. The [Photograph of Brenton Spiteri in The Pearl La Scala in Milan, Royal Opera House to directing professional artists, Chuck experience of working with a coach of occasions, so it was fantastic to have Coombe’ in November. Fishers provided by Melbourne Opera/ Matt Covent Garden, the Glyndebourne continues to focus on his work with Johannes Fritzsch is a German this calibre is for me one of the many one–on-one coaching with him. I • Is working towards The Lisa Deller] Festival and the English National artists in training. conductor with many years experience. reasons why the Melba program is at presented ‘Wie du warst’ from Richard Gasteen National Opera School in Opera. He is currently Chief Conductor of the the forefront in training young artists Strauss’s Der Rosenkavalier, which November. Brenton spiteri Queensland Symphony Orchestra. in Australia.” has some really difficult changes in • Was awarded second place in the tempo. Johannes conducted the piece Mietta Song Competition. for me a few times, which gave me great insight into how to tackle those • Performed ‘the Author’ in Sydney difficult sections. He has an incredible Chamber Opera’s world premiere Christian knowledge of this repertoire, and I of Mayakovsky at Carriage Works. gillett (Bass spent much of the session just soaking • Performed the role of Nadir in Melba Mentors Baritone) it in. I not only learnt a lot about the Melbourne Opera’s production of music, but about the history of the The Pearl Fishers in September/ “It’s always a piece as well.” October, conducted by Maestro at Mantra pleasure working Richard Divall. with Yvonne Kenny. She has the ability to bring out the best in your voice Matthew in a way that is respectful, inspiring [Photograph of Jade Moffat in The Perfect Mantra St Kilda Road is the latest jewel in the reardon and completely nurturing. To work American provided by OperaQ] (Tenor) Mantra Group’s crown. Its 4.5 star fully-serviced with someone who has had such an Jade Moffat apartments are both luxurious and comfortable. enormously successful career, but is “Judith Field’s still willing to impart her vast wealth of session on public • Sang in the chorus of Otello for knowledge to help younger singers, is speaking was one Opera Australia. Mantra St Kilda Road features designer While providing a modern, luxurious a gift that I treasure.” of my favourites bathrooms with large walk-in showers ambience, Mantra St Kilda Road • Won first prize and the in 2013, so I and the latest fit-out. celebrates the joy of artistic expression Mantra St Kilda Road General Manager Aaron audience choice award in the was eagerly awaiting working with through classic art deco styling and Bond with Semyon Rozin and Alexandra Flood Joan Sutherland Award (Noosa To ensure peace and quiet, windows her again in 2014, and I wasn’t unique artworks in every room. We Federation of the Arts) are double-glazed to cut out all traffic disappointed. She made the session offer the Trust an accommodation noise, while sampling the delights of nikki Hill enjoyable, informative and interesting, • Performed the role of Diane solution at ‘partnership’ rates the city is made easy by its convenient (soprano) and gave me lots of new and in The Perfect American with throughout the year, often hosting spring sunshine and hear about stefan Cassomenos location. interesting ways to introduce arias Opera Queensland, as part of the some of the country’s finest Alexandra’s recent adventures at the “I had always at concerts. I’ve tried many of her Brisbane Festival. • Performed the Grieg Piano Most Melba Mentors stay at Mantra St performers.” Salzburg Festival. found acting rather Concerto in Townsville with the Kilda Road, as do interstate scholars daunting, but suggestions already.” Regular Melba Mentor, Luxembourg- To access your Melba rate, visit www. Barrier Reef Orchestra. and other Opera Trust guests. The Trust Chuck Hudson has “Etiquette and Protocol was a new based American repetiteur, vocal coach mantra.com.au/victoria/melbourne- has an on-going arrangement with this changed that for and interesting experience for me. • Performed a solo concert at the and conductor Semyon Rozin, has and-surrounds/melbourne/ hotel, enabling members of the Melba me. I will never Susie Wilson is a very elegant and Beethoven Festival in Bonn, stayed here for three years in a row: accommodation/hotels/mantra- community to secure a special rate. forget his daily quotes such as, ‘It’s not well-presented mentor. She shared Germany. st-kilda-road/, enter your dates and Mantra Senior Area Sales & Marketing “I love the place: location, space, and the day nothing happened to a boring many useful tips about formal dining, type ‘Melba’ as the promotional code. • Appeared at Port Fairy Spring Manager for Victoria/Tasmania, the friendliness and helpfulness of person’ or, ‘Any choice is better than behaviour on social occasions, and how Alternatively call (03) 9525 0400 or Festival performing Schubert’s Die Michael Canny, explains the thinking the staff. And of course, thanks to the no choice’. After completing Chuck’s to be an excellent party guest!” email [email protected]. Schöne Mullerin with Christopher behind the choice to partner with the special arrangements with the Trust, workshop, I feel inspired to challenge Don’t forget to mention Melba Opera Saunders and a second concert Melba Trust: the costs are very reasonable.” myself, and that I now have the with PLEXUS. Trust to secure the special rate! “Mantra St Kilda Road aligns with Mantra St Kilda Road General Manager confidence and skills to take on any the values for which Dame Nellie Aaron Bond enjoyed catching up with opera character, big or small.” Melba herself was famous. We strive Semyon Rozin and Melba scholar for exceptional attention to detail, Alexandra Flood to soak up some continuously pursue excellence, and display a true tenacity of purpose.

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Opera on the Beach: Alexandra Flood in her dressing room during Der Rosenkavalier Can you share some thoughts on the experience of performing opera on a beach? Hannah: In a word – awesome! It was still warm, and performing on the beach with the waves rolling in is a unique experience. When the fireworks went off after Pamina and Tamino passed the trials, the birds would Away with Words: shriek all through Papageno’s aria, calming down only towards the end of the opera. You couldn’t plan it any better. [Photograph of Salzburg Panorama courtesy of Tourismus Salzburg] The set was different to that on the regional tour. It was 25m wide, three Alexandra Flood stories high, and set on the sand near On the the water. As one of the Ladies, I did Coloratura soprano Alexandra Flood – R.J. Hamer Opera a lot of running but it was wonderful Scholarship holder in 2014 – was back in Melbourne during to have the opportunity to really fill a in Salzburg stage and to sing out across the beach, September following three months overseas from June to August. Road feeling it bounce off the rocks and through the town. We had a wonderful Taking opera to the regions is a very different response from the town and from the Having won the Acclaim Italian Classic FM, who suggested I had the twiddling my thumbs, convinced I’d opera at the Mozarteum. He’s funny, What do you consider the principal locals who came. It was definitely a Opera Awards Freemasons Victoria right combination of skills they were blown it, until I was summoned for intelligent, and a great conductor. things you learned from the whole experience from performing a series of shows production I will remember. Fellowship, she spent the first three seeking. I was placed on Christopher a rehearsal with the accompanist. Clorinda in Cenerentola was rewarding experience? in a major city opera house. Janet: It was a delight! I could weeks in Jesi studying with soprano Lawrence’s morning show as his Eventually the rather eccentric casting in a different way, because it was Probably the biggest thing I learnt was hardly believe I was at work as we Valeria Esposito and Maestro Carlo assistant producer, so I did some director came in. I sang Blonde’s first so comical. The direction was very how much difference it makes having stood in the sand looking up at the Morganti, and then flew to Salzburg programming and also some news- aria from Mozart’s Die Entführung slapstick, so when we first started a smile on your face and constantly huge set – the outside of an ancient for two and a half months to take part reading for a classical music news aus dem Serail. I was then asked to rehearsing, I had this character ideal – being cheerful. It also reinforced for me tomb. Being near the water, we in the Young Artists Program at the show, as I’d had relevant experience sight-read the Queen of the Night’s which I’d had two days to develop – of how important it is never to be late, Melba Opera Trust alumni Stacey You performed in many venues. Can Hannah: Yes, the sports centre and could go for a quick dip during our Salzburg Festival. at Triple R. I had so much fun, and first aria from The Magic Flute, ‘Oh a prissy woman, and he said, “No, no, and to have the music fully prepared Alleaume and Hannah Dahlenburg you tell us something about the the converted pig stadium were the breaks while listening to strains of the We caught up with her to hear about really loved it, but I’d kept up my zittre nicht’. I’d never sung it before, no. You guys are cavemen; you’re just and memorised. It was obvious how were involved in Opera Australia’s variety of performance spaces? most notable. But we performed in orchestra from the waves! singing, and had applied to sing in La so the demi-semiquaver coloratura absolute slobs”. Sopranos don’t usually recent regional tour of Mozart’s The some stunning regional theatres as her experiences since her farewell valued that was, and I think I gained Stacey: They varied a lot, from dead The production was vibrant, funny bohème in Tuscany. I thought I might parts weren’t great, but I’d seen The get to be like that, so it was great fun! Magic Flute to 26 regional centres and well. It’s a testament to the crew we concert in St Paul’s Cathedral on respect for that. to live acoustics, and in size (both on and colourful, and set in ‘Indiana get into the chorus, but I got the role of Magic Flute the night before, and I had the first line of the opera, and towns, while Hannah and alumna Janet had that a wonderful performance 28 May. This provided an added And finally, how do you feel your stage and backstage), so the set had Jones’ style, designed by Michael Gow Musetta! the melody miraculously came back ironically the words were “Everyone Todd sang in the same work in ‘Opera space was always created. The set opportunity to learn more about the involvement with Melba Opera Trust to be adjusted to each venue. We and Robert Kemp. It was performed to me. “Hmmmmmmm”, said the can clearly see that I’m beautiful and on the Beach’ in Coolangatta from 9-11 itself was incredibly flexible, so we fascinating trajectory that led to her So I dropped everything and went prepared you for this festival? always had a sound check and a walk in English, and through Gow’s casting director. I was pumped with refined, and all men get excited just May this year. really could fit anywhere. acceptance into the Young Artists to Italy for three months in 2012 to over the set before each performance wonderful direction, the (somewhat adrenalin and had nothing to lose, so looking at me”. So the humour was Firstly, I didn’t get vocally fatigued Program at this prestigious festival. sing that role, and also studied Italian We asked them about their ‘on the to get accustomed to it. Generally The pace of the tour must have been strange) story of The Magic Flute was I said, “You’ve got to give me a day to in the contrast between the words the whole summer, and I think that’s We discovered that she might have for three hours every day. It was just road’ experiences. we performed in theatres, but other quite fierce? clearer than I’ve ever seen it portrayed. learn this aria. It’s not fair to ask me and the character. The children in the because I got my technique sorted out developed a successful career as amazing – I was totally won over. I spaces were the most memorable. Many of the audience were locals, and to sight-read this kind of coloratura!” audience loved it. In the Strauss, my before I got there. My funding enabled Stacey: Mostly we were only in each a writer and broadcaster, but an thought, “What have I been doing? In Marysville we performed in a they were enraptured! Beach chairs Amazingly he agreed, so I rushed back Modistin (milliner) was just a tiny me to pay for Skype lessons with Neil regional Tour: town for two days. There was a special opportunity to perform a major I like journalism, but I love singing!” basketball stadium, and in Morundah it stretched far down the beach – there to the hostel and set about learning it, role – a couple of lines – but it was Semer in New York City and to work crew for bump-ins and bump-outs, and operatic role fixed her resolve to Then I started thinking, “Okay, what What roles did you each play, and was a freezing pig shed! Morundah is a were 3,500 people there on the second with the help of an American baritone quite a challenge, because I was this intensively with Gary May here in the time varied of course, but typically focus on opera singing. Our discussion can I do to help my career and get to how did you find the experience of very small town, and when the opera night! There were families on picnic I was travelling with. Luckily for me it little soprano on this massive stage Melbourne. Second, we spoke mainly a bump-in took 4.5 hours and the revealed a young singer who is not where I want to be?” And one of the swapping roles? comes there, it’s a big event, with the blankets with their children, who could was his favourite aria! The next day I in the opera house trying to sing over German in Salzburg, and my funding bump-out 2.5. Some venues required only talented, but is clear about what first things I thought of was Melba locals dressed up in glam outfits, and play in the sand at interval. Sarastro went back, and halfway through my the crash of the cymbals. And the paid for regular German lessons in Stacey: I played Pamina and the a rostrum to be built, which added to she wants, determined, full of common Opera Trust, because so many of some in beautiful furs. And they were was carried to the stage through rehearsal, the casting director burst in. conductor wanted very articulated Melbourne before I went. Third, I Second Lady as well as the Priest and the time. The cast and orchestra were sense, and prepared to work very hard. the young Australian singers I knew well prepared for the cold with throw the audience on a throne carried by I got through it, but the coloratura was singing, so that was a great learning prepared my roles through musical Chorus roles. At first it required a lot not expected to assist, but I was keen who were doing really well had been rugs and blankets! It was an amazing eight local surf lifesavers dressed in I’m aware that you completed an a bit fudgy and the high note a little experience. coaching here in Australia, which of concentration and focus, but after a to help, particularly with setting up associated at some point with the atmosphere, and a delight to perform traditional speedos and swimming undergraduate degree in art history flat. There was a kind of telepathic was covered by Melba Opera Trust, few shows it became second nature. stage lighting. It meant more work for Melba. So I applied in 2012. I got Was there a typical day for you? for such an appreciative audience. caps. They were welcomed by a and philosophy, along with a Diploma exchange going on between the not only financially, but through the There were many entrances, exits me, but it was great to work behind an audition but didn’t get selected, thunderous applause every night. I of Music at Melbourne University, and casting director and the accompanist, There were certainly a couple of stand- people brought in for master classes, and costume changes, but because I feel that my three years experience the scenes and see how a show is put though I got some very constructive think they stole the show! that you then studied journalism at and then he said, “I’ll let you know in out days that typified my experience. including, among others, Siro Battaglin of a thorough rehearsal period, once in Opera Australia’s Schools’ Company together from start to finish. I was RMIT. What led to your decision to feedback and advice on how to keep One day, I had the opening night it launched we knew it backwards... working. October”. I said, “You’ve got to let me from Opera Australia. Fourth, I had has really taught me how to deal with fortunate that the crew was willing to Because of the large scale of the pursue a singing career? do it again!” “Excuse me?” he replied. of Der Rosenkavalier and then the many performance opportunities with though I do remember a moment of constantly performing in different teach me all aspects. production, our (amplified) voices, The following year I decided to opening night party. I got home from panic during a dress rehearsal when Towards the end of my studies at “Well you’ve walked in in the middle Melba in the first six months of the venues with such varied acoustics. Hannah: We weren’t idle! By the characters and staging had to be go to the American Institute of the party at 2am, and had to be at a I thought I was wearing the wrong Melbourne Uni, I still wasn’t sure about of my rehearsal. I’ve spent the last year, because they knew that I’d be I’ve learned to trust my technique end of the tour we had performed 33 very clear and quite large so that the Musical Studies (AIMS) in Graz, and master class with Thomas Hampson at costume! the whole opera thing, and had lots of 24 hours madly learning this aria. I away later. That was fantastic, because and not alter anything for fear of not shows across 26 venues in Victoria, huge audience could connect with other interests. In my last six months, I was granted the Opera Foundation haven’t slept; it’s not fair. Let me do it”. 10am, so I rolled out of bed and into I was able to apply my learning in Hannah: I played the Queen of the projecting. I no longer let the feedback us. It was our job to make sure Australia AIMS and AIMS Sundell Study my cocktail dress and ran over there. NSW, ACT and Tasmania. There were did electives in creative writing, loved We did it again, and it was really good. practice. I sang my Salzburg Festival Night and the First Lady. It can be or sound of a theatre throw me. only a few occasions when the the quality of the music was still it, and had some prose and poetry Awards. This included tuition at AIMS Then he said, “Welcome aboard!” It went until 1pm and I was starving material 100 times in public, so by the confusing during rehearsals, but the incredibly high to match the spectacle for six weeks, and a generous living because I’d not had breakfast, so I had In 24 of the 26 venues on this tour, bump-ins and bump-outs didn’t go so published in respected journals. I time I got there, I was quite confident Queen of the Night and the First Lady of this beachside performance. [Photographs of Hannah Dahlenburg and Stacey allowance, which I stretched out to four I think he probably admired your to sneak out and grab a sausage! Then a local children’s chorus was used to smoothly, but it was lovely to see how thought, “I want to be a writer”, so attitude as well as your singing! with these pieces. Melba also really are such different characters, so it was perform as the ‘Three Spirits’, animals everyone pitched in. With fireworks concluding the evening, Alleaume courtesy of Opera Australia/Albert months because I’d done Europe on I needed to rush out at the end to get Comper] I applied and was accepted to study helped me put on my farewell concert fun exploring those differences, and and other chorus roles. I found it really a good dose of fresh air and a quality journalism at RMIT. a shoestring and I knew all the tricks! It was an out-of-body experience. into make-up for Die Entführung aus at St Paul’s, and with the reception certainly never boring! production with excellent performers AIMS was very successful for me. I Everything fell into place. Being late dem Serail. I was there for an hour, rewarding to have the chance to help [Photograph of Janet Todd & Opera on the Beach and musicians, ‘Opera on the courtesy of Opera Australia/Darcy Grant] Before I started that course, I travelled afterwards. Finally, it’s been really inspire the younger generation about worked with some amazing people, meant I was less nervous, and it turned and then did the show, which was a wonderful to develop a relationship Beach’ was a huge success. to Europe, and though singing wasn’t and came third in the Meistersinger out they were casting for the role of matinée. As soon as the bows were opera and the world of theatre and the my focus on that trip, I did have with Lady Hamer – there aren’t many stage. Vocal Competition in Austria, which Blonde! So I was taken on in that role, finished, I rushed off stage to be in organisations where patrons and a lesson with Barbara Bonney in was an important moment. I also and as the Queen of the Night, though make-up for Rosenkavalier over on Salzburg. She was very strict and scholars can develop such bonds. She auditioned for the Salzburg Festival The Magic Flute was cancelled and the other side of the opera house, and has been so excited to hear about my tough, but gave me good advice, at that time. Then I came home, re- replaced with Rossini’s La Cenerentola was there again for an hour. I did the particularly regarding appropriate progress in Salzburg, knowing that she auditioned for Melba, and I got in! (Cinderella). show, got released after Act 1, and helped me get there, and I have loved repertoire for my age – I was only 20. raced across the opera house, still Melba Opera Trust alumna Janet Todd is the So that was my introduction to the I hear that there is a really good story I believe you were worked extremely sharing it with her. around your audition for Salzburg. hard at the Festival. Can you tell us in full hair and make-up, to be in a recipient of the 2015 Dame Heather Begg Award. European school of singing. I also went recital by Diana Damrau that finished On 27 September, Alexandra flew to Dame Can you share it with us? about that? to the opening night of Don Giovanni at 10pm. Afterwards I bumped into Munich to begin a two-year master’s Established in the name of the late Dame in Vienna, which meant having to buy I went to Salzburg to visit Siobhán The other coloratura soprano had to the conductor of Cenerentola, who degree in opera at the Hochschule für Heather Begg, the award offers early career a $2 pair of high heels, as I had packed Stagg, who was taking part in withdraw because her father was ill, suggested we go out. That was a 15- Musik und Theater. The program is run Heather artists $20,000 to underwrite ongoing operatic only my hiking boots! the Young Artists Program at the and another soprano cast for the role in conjunction with the Bayerische hour day! The toughest days were study and professional development within Salzburg Festival, and she urged me of Blonde was suffering from vocal when I was in two operas in one day. Theaterakademie, which operates in The course at RMIT was really ‘hands- Austr alia or internationally. on’ and practical, and I loved the to audition while I was there. I was fatigue, so I was asked to jump in a lot, But there was no time to complain or the Prinzregententheater. She selected Begg reticent, because I had no professional often at short notice. Because of this, have a diva moment; you just did it. this program over many others she contrast from the highly-academic Janet has recently left for New York with living expenses and in funding experience, but she told me to pull I was asked three days before the first It’s a cliché, but every morning I would researched because it combines the writing I was accustomed to. I was to undertake a master’s degree additional training with coaches up my socks and do it, and kindly set music rehearsal to take on the role of wake up excited to start the day. And benefits of the university with all of Award drawn to broadcasting, and did an specialising in opera at the Manhattan outside college in New York. Dame me up with the right people to make Clorinda, one of the ugly stepsisters I think that kind of earnest eagerness the practical training in the opera internship at Channel 9, where I School of Music, and is honoured to Heather Begg’s story and character are an appointment. I auditioned the next in Cenerentola, a perfect role for acted in my favour, because it meant I house. We wish her every success, and produced a few ‘pieces to camera’ have received this award: very inspiring to me. In her memory I day! Totally uncharacteristically, I got me! I also had a small role in Richard arrived at rehearsal really bubbly and look forward to following her progress News that I wrote myself. I also did some plan to work extremely hard, and such the time wrong. It was in my diary Strauss’s Der Rosenkavalier. ready to go, and directors appreciate and hearing her sing when she next “I’m so thrilled to be the recipient of feature pieces, including a big article a generous award will greatly assist on opera for Limelight magazine, for July 22nd at 1pm, but I read 2pm. Perhaps you could tell us about the that. visits Melbourne. such a special award honouring the In the rabbit warren of the opera memory of Dame Heather Begg! A me to gain the most from these two which led me to consider working roles you played? years of intensive study!” as a freelance writer. Out of the blue house I finally found someone to help proportion of the award will contribute me, and apologised profusely for my The Mozart was very rewarding. The towards fees at the Manhattan School Congratulations Janet! about three months later, I got a call conductor was Kai Röhrig, head of from the Program Director at ABC error. I sat in a waiting room for hours of Music and the rest will help me

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We were thrilled to be able to hold Lofty Line-Up: this event at the creative home of Opera Australia – the Opera Centre – giving our guests the opportunity Our 2015 to experience a real working environment. Among those attending Scholarship O’Neill was in Sydney in July to perform were esteemed members of the the lead role in Verdi’s Otello, for opera community, including Moffatt Audition which his performance received rave Oxenbould (retired Artistic Director reviews such as “tireless and thrilling”, of Opera Australia) Glenn Winslade Panel and “giving a reading of enormous (tenor and voice teacher), Vicki Watson panache, considerable vocal nuance, (soprano and voice teacher) and Shirley with some of the most exciting top Germain (widow of John Germain AM, The ever-increasing notes you are likely to hear on the baritone). A distinguished group of Home Sweet calibre of applicants operatic stage today”. current and prospective Sydney-based supporters was also there. for Melba Opera O’Neill’s presence in Australia was the perfect opportunity for Melba Jade admitted the singers all felt a Trust scholarships is little nervous: evident from Stage 1 scholars to experience his charm and great wisdom in an open master “But Simon put us at ease immediately of the 2015 application class held on Sunday 13 July. Singing by explaining that this was a working, process, which on this occasion were scholars experimental environment, and closed at the end of Nikki Hill (soprano), Jade Moffat neither a performance nor a space of Home Heroic Singers (mezzo-soprano), Matthew Reardon judgment. I felt he gave us permission “Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam September. (tenor) and Brenton Spiteri (tenor), to ‘go for it’, and to refine it as we Perform for Heroic Tenor accompanied by Opera Australia progressed. I presented ‘Se Romeo Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home! Prospective applicants have submitted repetiteur and vocal coach Siro t’uccise un figlio’ from Bellini’s an application form online, together Battaglin. All felt that the master class I Capuleti e i Montecchi, and we A charm from the skies seems to hallow us there, with a 200-word performance was among the best they had taken worked on creating a very even line, biography, a CV, a YouTube or A native of New Zealand, Simon O’Neill has part in to date. within a column of sound. This piece Which seek thro’ the world is not met with elsewhere.” Vimeo performance and an Artistic As a member of the Opera Australia has a high tessitura for me, and Simon Development Program Proposal. The established himself as one of the finest helden- helped me to sing it more freely, as [From ‘Home sweet Home’ – H.r. Bishop] chorus for Otello, Jade Moffat had audition panel is now at work carefully tenors on the international stage. He is a already seen O’Neill in action, and it well as being very encouraging. It was assessing applications ahead of Stage 2 turned out he was looking forward to quite liberating! His master class was – live auditions and interviews to take principal artist with the Metropolitan Opera, hearing Jade sing as much as she was one of the most inspiring and useful place in November. excited to sing for him. Jade said: I’ve sung in and I will remember it for the Royal Opera House Covent Garden, Teatro a long time to come.” As ever, our panel is made up of fine Melbourne’s elegant and refined the Alexandra Club, and “As a young singer, I have learnt so artists, well able to judge the talent alla Scala and both the Bayreuth and Salzburg This was the second of three events Alexandra Club was redolent with for a community that so much simply from watching other and potential of young singers: we are presenting in Sydney this year, the sentiments expressed in these wholeheartedly supports Festivals, and has worked with many world- artists work, including technique, stagecraft and movement. I found each one providing a further chance to words on the afternoon of Friday the activities of the Melba introduce interested Sydneysiders to Sharolyn Kimmorley AM: renowned conductors. Simon incredible to watch moving on 24 July when around 70 guests, Opera Trust. siobhán has Melba Opera Trust’s unique program. including the Joscelyne community, a sublime instrument, an As Melba Opera Trust stage, and I now know what people gathered together to celebrate the impressive work ethic, and Artistic Advisor, Sharolyn mean by ‘real stage presence’.” (temporary) homecoming of former is so grounded despite chairs the Panel as usual, and is involved in Stages scholar Siobhán Stagg, who studied working at such an elite Photograph of Simon O’Neill as Otello courtesy of Opera Australia/Branco Gaica on the Amelia Joscelyne Memorial level. i cannot wait to be 1 and 2. She has enjoyed Scholarship from 2009 to 2012. following in the steps of a long and distinguished Siobhán was joined in performance my predecessor as Amelia career as one of Australia’s by current Amelia Joscelyne scholar, scholar when i leave finest vocal coaches and soprano Rebecca Gulinello, with Australia for italy in accompanists, and is Associate Artist, Amir Farid, at the October for the first leg greatly in demand both in Melba Artists: piano. of my professional studies Australia and overseas. overseas. i will also be Following a welcome by Melba Moffatt Oxenbould AM Opera Trust General Manager, Amy following siobhán’s sage Bayside and Beyond advice to be myself, and to joins us again for Stage 1. Black, Siobhán joined Trust Managing Moffatt’s contribution to Director, Peter Garnick, who led a take every opportunity as it arises!” opera in Australia spans “Melba scholars constitute a perfect fit for these Bayside conversation intended to provide the 50 years. He was Artistic audience with a sense of Siobhán’s Director at Opera Australia concerts. Why? Because they sing to a high standard and as journey since leaving Australia in late An impromptu performance of ‘Happy Birthday’ for Mary-Jane from 1984 until his they are poised to launch their professional careers, they are 2012, particularly since she joined retirement in 2000. the Deutsche Oper in Berlin in late Joscelyne’s twin sons Matthew and at the stage of needing to attract people who will follow 2013. In a dialogue peppered with Simon was a lovely gesture. But the afternoon would not have been Deborah Humble is on their careers”. (Dr Patricia Armstrong-Grant OBE, Melba Opera Trust Benefactor) amusing and interesting anecdotes, board this year for Stage Siobhán’s busy performing schedule complete without a superb rendition of ‘Home Sweet Home’. Delighted 2. A freelance mezzo- for the remainder of 2014, including soprano, Deborah is one of Dr Armstrong-Grant’s words express when the audience chatted in between Earlier this year, Dr Patricia Armstrong- engagements in Germany, England guests then gathered for afternoon well some of the major reasons why the musical numbers. I assumed this Grant was the force behind ‘An tea with the artists, complete with Australia’s most successful and Australia, was also outlined. international artists. Melba Opera Trust’s Performance meant that they were uninterested Afternoon of Opera Bayside’, two beautiful linen, lace tablecloths and Program is so integral to its unique and bored; however I was very wrong. recitals given by Melba scholars as part Set against the backdrop of the napkins, tastefully pretty teacups overall schedule, and why Melba They insisted on an encore and gave of the Bayside City Council’s Resonance Alexandra Club’s impressive art and dainty scones. “I am sure that Artists Coordinator Jo Beaumont and us a standing ovation, so I assumed series at St Andrew’s by the Sea collection, this was a warm and Dame Nellie Melba would have Program Coordinator Bruce Raggatt this was ‘the Italian way’! And it Beaumaris/Black Rock Uniting Church. Photograph of Jade Moffat at Puccini and Friends insightful dialogue that obviously Andrea Molino is an approved!” remarked Mary-Jane work hard to create a variety of was lovely to perform at Mandeville On April 13, current scholars Rebecca (Italian Cultural Institute) provided by Lisa Golden engaged its listeners. “What came Italian composer and Joscelyne. opportunities for our scholars to sing in such a beautiful building in an Gulinello (soprano) and Jeremy through”, according to Melba Opera conductor in great demand in public – though it’s pleasing to note intimate setting for just 50 people. The Kleeman (bass-baritone), together with Trust Founding Patron Mary-Jane The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial on the international scene. that this is becoming easier as demand feedback I received afterwards made alumni Nathan Lay (baritone) and Kyla included in the Cultural Action Plan, but Joscelyne, “was the enormous Scholarship was established in 1989 He will participate in Stage for our artists is growing! my day: “I really believed that you Allan (mezzo-soprano) performed a lack of funds prevented this happening. amount of work Siobhán has covered, by family and friends of Melba 2 of our audition process. were in love in the duet you sang from varied program of arias from Mozart However, my ‘opera please pleas’ were sometimes working on six different Conservatorium student Amelia In August, mezzo-soprano Jade Moffat, La bohème!” to Gershwin. And on July 20, current not forgotten, and last year Julie Skate, operas in a week. It was also clear Joscelyne, late daughter of Mary-Jane soprano Nikki Hill and tenor Matthew Joscelyne. If you would like to make scholars Matthew Reardon (tenor) and Gallery Supervisor of the Bayside Art how much fun she’s having!” Reardon, accompanied by Melba Other recent opportunities include and Cultural Centre, suggested that a personal contribution, we invite Trust Associate Repetiteur Stefan Melba scholar involvement in Nikki Hill (soprano), joined by alumna A musical program of arias by Puccini, I bring opera Bayside. Naturally I you to consider a tax-deductible Cassomenos, performed a program Mozart’s Missa Brevis K. 194 at St Janet Todd (soprano), sang arias by Catalani, Delibes, Charpentier, wanted to feature Melba Opera Trust donation. Donations can be made For more details about the Melba titled ‘Puccini & Friends’ at the Italian Francis’ Catholic Church in the city; Mozart, Donizetti, Massenet, Verdi, Korngold and Lehár followed and, scholars, and I was able to speak online www.melbaoperatrust.com. Opera Trust’s 2015 auditions, and Institute of Culture (IIC) and at ‘Opera in a performance at the Melbourne Puccini, to name a few, with some judging by the thunderous applause, to the audiences about the history, au/support/, or by contacting us by if you wish to read more about the Mansion’ at Loreto Mandeville Hall Club facilitated by new Melba Opera lighter songs to finish. Both occasions the audience was enchanted. objectives and achievements of Melba telephone: (03) 9867 4833. our panellists, please visit www. in Toorak. ‘Puccini and Friends’ at the Trust Director Ross Elliott; a recital of were accompanied by highly-respected For Rebecca, it was a particularly Opera Trust. Importantly, refreshments melbaoperatrust.com.au/ IIC follows on from the very successful opera at a dinner held at the Victorian Melbourne musician David Kram. wonderful experience: following each concert provided our scholarship-application-2015/ concert ‘Verdi & Friends’ held there Bar’s Essoign Club; a series of small The events were very successful, the Photograph of David Kram, Nathan Lay, Kyla singers with invaluable networking Allen, Rebecca Gulinello and Jeremy Kleeman “i felt so honoured to the-application-process/ and last year. Nikki Hill’s comments on her recitals at St Michael’s Uniting Church second being completely sold out. www.melbaoperatrust.com.au/ opportunities.” performing at first Bayside Resonance Music be singing with such experience of performing this program in Collins St; and a concert of excepts Dr Armstrong-Grant explains how the Series - Photography - Suzy Toovey a calm, collected and scholarship-application-2015/ demonstrate the importance and value from Bizet’s Carmen accompanied by Melba’s involvement came about: To hear our singers perform at other professional soprano audition-panellists/. events, please consult our webpage for our singers of being exposed to Melbourne Sinfonia, an auxiliary of the “As Chair of the Bayside Cultural as siobhán stagg, in the at www.melbaoperatrust.com.au/ different environments: Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne Advisory Committee for several years, I delightful setting of whats-on/ “’Puccini & Friends’ was a gig to and its resident orchestra. canvassed continually for opera to be remember! I was rather taken aback

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Hidden behind a grand hedge for more than a century, Dame Nellie A Melba Medal Melba’s beloved Coombe Farm is now open to the public, and a new John and Elizabeth Wright-Smith’s chapter has begun for this Australian cultural icon. The public enthusiasm for Melba Opera Trust’s need no longer be curious. Under the auspices of Melba’s family, the mission is all-encompassing and historic outbuildings, including the stables, tack room and motor contagious. house where Melba once parked her De Dion-Bouton and Rolls- Royce cars, have been lovingly renovated. Since shortly after launching its unique The power failed, and with candlelight and remarkable program in 2008, the enhancing the romantic atmosphere, Trust has enjoyed the support of these John and Liz were entranced. “Our Melba two visionaries, whose belief in our enthusiastic clapping and cheering was potential has contributed significantly immediately noticed by Amy Black at Coombe to the continued development of the who was sitting behind, and we have program. They have become leaders been in her grasp ever since!” says in the Melba community, wonderful John. What better way to celebrate the ambassadors, and loved patrons to our The Wright-Smiths have left their opening of Coombe – The Melba Estate scholars. than with music? The family of Dame mark on every aspect of the Trust’s Nellie Melba invites lovers of food, A retired Consultant Physician in program. They actively engage in wine, opera and history to join them geriatrics with a special interest in mentoring and supporting scholars’ to celebrate the opening of Coombe dementia, John was introduced to education, and regularly attend – The Melba Estate, a stunning new opera as a boy at his father’s knee, performances, as well as hosting what restaurant and gallery facility in the listening to some of the finest voices has become the annual ‘Wright-Smith grounds of Melba’s home, Coombe on the radio. At the age of six he first Opera in the Arena’ event on their Cottage, in the Yarra Valley Victoria. heard Beethoven’s Minuet in G and Yarra Valley property. And of course began learning the violin. He reached they have directly supported scholars’ The concert will feature many of the Grade 6 at the age of 10 when sadly artistic development with scholarship most familiar and popular arias and his father died and tuition ceased. funding made available through the been a real pleasure, Wright-Smiths, as Chair, and founding patron Mary- duets from the world’s most beloved Although he learned violin and not endowment of the Trust’s first named and I’m looking forward to our years of Jane Joscelyne; founding patron and operas and music theatre. Performed singing, John has long been convinced scholarship. friendship still to come.” friend Pamela, Lady Vestey, and most by Melba Opera Trust Artists and that “the finest musical instrument is recently to Jenny Sutherland for her In his third year as the recipient of It was entirely fitting, therefore, to accompanied by internationally the human voice”. 25+ years of support and championing the Wright-Smith Scholarship, tenor award the 13th Melba Medal to John acclaimed pianist Stefan Cassomenos. of the Melba legacy. Alongside her keen involvement with Brenton Spiteri expresses his gratitude: and Liz at the Trust’s AGM held at the This exclusive November concert will the Melba, Liz has been a passionate premises of our generous sponsors, De John and Liz are thus in very good feature current scholars Nikki Hill and “Whether it be making CDs for me to horse rider for many years. She began Bortoli Wines, in May this year. Now company and consider it a great Jeremy Kleeman and guest artist listen to, inviting me to their home, riding as a young child, and resumed a time-honoured tradition, the Melba honour to receive the Melba Medal: Angela Hogan performing songs from coming to hear my performances, or seriously after the youngest of the Medal is bestowed to acknowledge Carmen, Don Giovanni, La bohéme, simply the hugs, smiles and kind words “It consolidates our close association couple’s seven children turned four. and pay tribute to exceptional Lakmé, Les Contes d’Hoffmann, they provide, John and Liz have always with members and supporters of She also enjoyed show jumping and generosity and support. The first was Samson et Dalila, Porgy and Bess, Les been there for me with the most the Trust and spurs us on to spread cross country but recently has restricted presented in 1993 to Joan Arnold Misérables and Camelot. enthusiastic and unflinching support. the word. It seals an exciting and herself to dressage, “with less height I recently saw them at the memorial OBE for her outstanding service as wonderful future for the Trust of The ticket price of $250 per head per to fall!” for the late Australian soprano and director of the Melba Conservatorium which we will continue to be strong evening includes the performance John and Liz’s interest in Melba Opera wonderful Melba mentor Eilene from 1975 to 1986. Recipients have supporters. It also represents the by our magnificent Melba artists, Trust was sparked in 2009, when they Hannan, and chatting with them was included, among others, the late success and generosity of the large preceding canapés and trophy winning attended a recital by Melba scholars in another reminder of how generous, Alfred Ruskin AM for his leadership number of donors who I am sure will sparkling wine in the Melba Gallery the riddling room at Domaine Chandon. humorous and spirited they are. It’s of the Melba Conservatorium; the share this honour.” and a three-course gourmet meal by late Bill Joscelyne for his leadership Executive Chef Tony Milton in the new Clocktower Restaurant with matching Coombe Farm Wines. Buses from Melbourne are available if required. Bookings are essential. For more information and bookings, Meet our New Director: call Coombe – The Melba Estate (03) 9739 0173, or visit: Coombe coombeyarravalley.com.au/. Ross Elliott “We are delighted that in East Kew for four years until his ross Elliott joined the voice broke. Since that time, Ross’s Council in July. His passion love of opera and classical music has An Iconic Landmark for music along with his gradually developed, and he attends crafted by Chief Winemaker, Steve extensive professional and numerous opera productions, as De Bortoli Webber: Opens to the Public social networks will be well as Musica Viva chamber music “While it’s predominantly Chardonnay, welcome additions to the recitals and other performances. Delights we introduced small quantities of Pinot board table.” A supporter of young opera singers Noir and Pinot Meunier to add a bit As builder and keeper of Dame estate, as well as a gallery and cellar and the history of the estate, will Coombe Manager Daniel Johnson Melba Opera Trust Council Chair, for over 10 years, Ross brings more breadiness and complexity. A lot Nellie Melba’s legacy, and with our door/providore curving around an surely then be in order around the sums up the overall objectives Robert Logie-Smith valuable experience to Melba Opera of consumers enjoy the Blanc de Blancs style, but don’t generally understand patron now being Melba’s great ornamental Chinese elm tree. They lush, century-old, 2.8 hectare gardens for Coombe – The Melba Estate as Ross enjoyed a distinguished medical Trust: Melba Opera Trust’s relationship with De Bortoli Yarra great granddaughter, the Honourable can indulge in Escoffier-inspired designed by William Guilfoyle, follows: the term. This has been simplified with career that spanned over 40 years. “My love of opera and music, Valley Estate is one we greatly value. Saffron Foster, Melba Opera Trust dishes named in Melba’s honour, including a swimming pool built the new Rococo Premium NV Cuvée.” “Melba was the most famous woman At the time of his retirement in together with my belief in the enjoys a special relationship with such as Melba toast, Peach Melba in 1913, an elm tree avenue and As ever this year, our generous sponsor Melba. We are delighted to have been on the planet at the turn of the last 2009, he was a Senior Consultant importance of helping young artists Importantly, the new sparkling wine Coombe, and is responsible for and Melba sauce, included on the a glorious 19th-century oak tree. has supplied its carefully-cultivated, associated with Melba Opera Trust for century. She embodied glamour and in Gastroenterology at St Vincent’s reach their true potential, is what is visually appealing, with a classy, the maintenance of Melba’s grave beautifully simple and seasonal à-la- Visitors may also view and enjoy delicious wines for several major several years now.” fame never before seen in Australia. Public Hospital, as well as consulting draws me to Melba Opera Trust. I aim brushed metallic label reminiscent in the nearby Lilydale Cemetery. carte breakfast, lunch and signature revolving exhibitions of the Dame’s Melba events, including our ‘Meet the It’s important that she and her in private practice. Until early this to continue the excellent stewardship As many readers will know, De Bortoli’s of 18th-century European ‘Rococo’ While Coombe Cottage itself and afternoon tea menus designed by remarkable fashion and art, including Scholars’ evening at the Australian influence are not forgotten. Our vision year, Ross was also Medical Director of the Trust, and to contribute to the admiration for Dame Nellie led to artworks. We can’t wait to try it! the gatehouse will remain private French-trained, former QE2 chef exquisite jewellery, pristine Hermès Club in April, the reception and soirée the development of a wine label that for the estate has been very carefully and Owner of two Day Endoscopy difficult task of fund-raising”. Meanwhile, De Bortoli’s very clever for use by Melba descendants, great Tony Milton. The menu includes riding boots and Cartier handbags featuring Siobhán Stagg at Cranlana bears her name. And the wines in this realised to continue a legacy which Centres. His charity work has included head chef, Adam Mead, has been busy grandsons Lord Samuel Vestey and produce grown on the property, such acquired during her time living in July, and of course at the AGM and premium Cabernet-based range (Melba is very important to Melba’s family, founding and chairing the Gutsy devising a new spring menu, which the Honourable Mark Vestey and as beef, vegetables and wines, and and performing in Paris. Landscape Current Melba lunch at De Bortoli on 30 May when Reserve, Melba Mimi and Melba to the Yarra Valley and to Australia. Group, which raises $100,000 a includes such dishes as pheasant and their progeny, Coombe Cottage and has already been reviewed as “an paintings of Coombe Estate by Hans Directors the Melba Medal was awarded to the Lucia) are élite performers, as are our It’s the family’s hope that by opening year for high-quality research into confit duck terrine, kingfish carpaccio its beautiful music room continues to outstanding dining experience”. A Heysen painted between 1914 and Melba Trust patrons John and Elizabeth scholars. Then there’s the La Bohème the estate to all, Dame Nellie Melba’s improving the treatment of Crohn’s Robert G. Logie-Smith – Chair with blood orange, spanner crab risotto be available for very special private stop at the providore and cellar door 1921, and not seen in public for Wright-Smith. range in four acts (Riesling, Pinot story will live on.” Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. and suckling pig. There are some truly Melba Trust events featuring our might follow, where wines, flowers, more than 80 years, will form part Roz Zalewski – Deputy Chair According to vineyard manager, Leanne Rose, Pinot Gris and friends, and Syrah mouth-watering dishes to try. So why scholars. fruits and vegetables grown at of the inaugural exhibition. Future For more information, please visit Now he feels he can devote more De Bortoli, the feeling is mutual: Gamay), perfect accompaniments for Dimitry Danilovich – Treasurer not plan a day in the Yarra Valley, Coombe Farm, as well as homemade exhibitions will include paintings by www.coombeyarravalley.com.au. time and energy to his other passion: special Melba occasions, or indeed for Behind the large, cypress hedge Ross Elliott “We enjoy seeing the ‘sparkling’ new including some wine-tasting and lunch preserves and Melba memorabilia, Arthur Streeton depicting the Yarra opera. Ross was brought up with any occasion! that surrounds the property, visitors talent that is fostered and nurtured at Locale, De Bortoli’s restaurant. can be purchased to take home. Valley and the Dandenongs, and music, his parents having sung in Peter Reilly can now discover a spacious and through the wonderful Melba Opera There’s a lot happening in spring at De a bearskin rug given to Melba by the local church choir for 60 years. Corporate, private and wedding elegant, 150-seat café restaurant A postprandial tour, peppered with Peter Garnick Trust. We’ve also had the pleasure of Bortoli. They have recently launched Charlie Chaplin. He was also a chorister, singing as a functions can also be booked there, built with timber salvaged from the tales about Melba’s lavish parties choir boy at St Paul’s Anglican Church hearing some performers at our winery their own new ‘sparkling’ talent – the including, of course, Christmas. For in the Yarra Valley, which was of course Rococo Premium Cuvée, an elegant, more information and bookings, please the much loved home of Dame Nellie dry, medium-bodied wine carefully visit www.debortoliyarra.com.au.

Page 10 Page 11 The Melba SPRING 2014

An evening of opera at

not before we had taken a stroll amongst before the performance, I was aware Stowell Park the breathtaking gardens of Stowell. As there was potential for opportunities for you may imagine, there were more than our alumni to develop as a result of this a few ‘Downton Abbey’ anecdotes being occasion. It struck me that Estate shared! in much the same way that Lady Gladys de Grey hosted As guests arrived, they were directed soirées and receptions to to a great terrace overlooking the help establish Dame Nellie’s rolling hills of the Cotswolds. Saffron career in London all of those had worked tirelessly to spread interest years ago, history seemed for the evening and the result was an to be repeating itself, thanks impressive 110 in attendance. We were to the enthusiasm and particularly delighted that James Hancock invaluable support of the from the Tait Foundation was present to be welcomed Vestey family. and that our Melbourne friend Chris Ryan into the family and had also made the journey to enjoy this Following rapturous to work together Amy Black reports… special occasion. applause, Trust Deputy Chair to bring music to Roz Ruskin addressed guests Following the reception, guests filled Stowell Park. Lady on behalf of the Board, their glasses to the sounds of the Vestey’s first words offering sincere thanks to On Saturday 30 August, Melba Opera Trust made its Brindisi and took their seats in the to me immediately Lord and Lady Vestey for their wonderful grand ballroom. Lord Vestey welcomed after the performance implied a wish for international debut with An intimate evening of hospitality. Guests had asked me a lot of attendees, explained the history behind a “repeat performance”, so it is my great questions about Melba Opera Trust, and opera at Stowell Park, Lord Vestey’s estate in the the Vestey family, “Granny” Melba and hope that this would be the start I was pleased to discover that many had Cotswolds. their long-standing involvement with of another important family tradition. visited our website and already had an Melba Opera Trust. He also shared a Finally, I would like especially to understanding of our program. It was An idea created and enthusiastically Saffron and Lord Vestey, we were special insight into his mother’s final acknowledge Siobhán, Emily and fitting, therefore, that I was given the implemented by our patron, The Hon. ushered through the magnificent halls of wishes: that the family continue to Samuel, who not only delivered an opportunity to make some concluding Saffron Foster, the evening was an Stowell into a lovely chamber where a support Melba Opera Trust and that her impressive performance, but were also remarks on Melba Opera Trust and the ‘invitation only’ affair with guests delicious afternoon tea awaited. granddaughter carry on patronage as tremendous representatives of Melba enjoying canapés and Coombe Farm importance of facilitating international From the outset, the occasion was first she, her mother and her grandmother Opera Trust and of Australia generally. wines in the gardens before proceeding opportunities for the continued and foremost a family affair. Over sponge had done before. In a follow-up email from Siobhán, into the grand ballroom to enjoy an development of our scholars. cake and tea, we were introduced to The musical program was a feast I was pleased to learn that the three hour-long soirée featuring Melba alumni The evening concluded with a surprise Saffron’s children and the singers shared of operatic delights, including a artists attended a performance together Siobhán Stagg, Emily Edmonds and dedication. Earlier in the formalities, stories of their journey so far. The artists breathtaking rendition by Siobhán and of Elektra in London the next night. It Samuel Sakker accompanied on piano by Lord Vestey had proudly acknowledged especially won the hearts of Saffron’s Samuel of ‘O soave fanciulla’ from La appears our international Melba Opera Susanna Stranders. his ‘half-Australian’ heritage and two youngest children Billy (2 years old) bohème and Emily’s gorgeous singing of Trust community continues to thrive, for throughout the evening there were Siobhán had flown in from Berlin the and Evie (5 years old) who sat entranced the ‘Séguidille’ from Carmen. There were in the audience they ran into none other undertones about celebrating Australian day before, and both Samuel and Emily throughout the entire musical rehearsal arias and duets performed from Mozart, than Melba Mentor Stuart Skelton. The achievement. It therefore seemed had only arrived from Australia five days and then proceeded to entertain us Strauss, Lehár and Delibes. As a finale, ‘Melba’ world is spread far and wide! entirely appropriate that our final earlier! A rehearsal at Royal Opera Covent with a song or two of their own. It all three artists joined forces to deliver a This was indeed a successful gesture of thanks was a stirring a capella Garden on the Friday evening followed struck me how pleased our Founding particularly sentimental performance of international debut for Melba Opera Trust rendition of ‘Waltzing Matilda’, delivered by a road trip from London to the Patron Pamela, Lady Vestey would have Granny Melba’s signature ‘Home Sweet – bravi tutti! with sensitivity by Siobhán, Emily and Cotswolds on Saturday gave the singers been to see her great grandchildren Home’. plenty of opportunity to ‘catch up’ – both performing alongside the recipients of Samuel. This was a rousing grand finale Signing off from London with As I scanned the audience, I noted a sea socially and musically. her grandmother’s generosity at their featuring an audience awash with tears! all best wishes, of enthusiastic and warm faces genuinely family’s UK estate – truly a family legacy Our sincere thanks go to Saffron and her Amy Black We arrived at Stowell Park mid-afternoon thrilled at what they were hearing. at work. 6pm arrived all too soon, but family for their tireless efforts and warm and, following a warm welcome from Having spoken to many of the guests hospitality. It was an absolute privilege

The Melba Opera Trust also appreciates the generosity Supporters of the Melba Opera Trust of our Friends Circle of which there are over 200 supporters Thank you for making our programs possible...

Patrons In Chief: Hans & Petra Henkell Dr Dianne & Lino Bresciani Peter Mander & Walter van Nieuwkuyk PHILANTHROPIC PARTNERS The Governor of Victoria and Mrs Chernov Ian & Dale Johnson Mrs Elizabeth Chernov Denys & Ingeborg McCullough Founding Patrons: David Jones Peter & Jan Clark Ian McDonald Mary-Jane Joscelyne Robert G & Sue Logie-Smith Margaret & Kevin Collecut Mrs Patricia McKenzie The late Pamela, Lady Vestey Tom & Ruth O’Dea Sandy Clark & Marie McDonald Ross McPherson MELBA BOARD Lady Southey AC Jillian Cobcroft Debora & Dr Bryan Mendelson Robert G Logie-Smith, Chair Ann & Russell Cole Fiona Menzies MAESTRO CIRCLE ($5,000 – $9,999) Roz Ruskin, Deputy Chair Jim Cousins AO & Libby Cousins Margaret & Patrick Mills Jim Allen OAM Dmitry Danilovich, Treasurer Rosie & Dr Peter Cunningham James Mighell SC Judy Allen Ross Elliott Arthur Day AM & Hilary Day Susan Morgan Judith & James Beattie Peter Reilly Jane Douglass AM Diane & Tom Morris The Late Lorraine Elliot AM & John Kiely Peter Garnick, Managing Director Ros & John Dowling Dr Kenneth Muirden AO & Peter Griffin AM & Terry Swann Linda & Terry Elliott Lesley Muirden PATRONS ($250,000 – $499,999) Catherine Freeman Vivien & Jack Fajgenbaum Margaret Nevett The Hon. Saffron Foster Nance Grant AM MBE & Ian Harris Dr Helen Ferguson Geoffrey Norris Joseph Sambrook & Mary Jane Gething Gill & Giles Hunt Dr Frank & Mrs Firkin Stephen O’Meara & Kate Galvin John & Elizabeth Wright-Smith Mary-Jane Joscelyne William J Forrest AM Graeme Parncutt Dr Peter A Kingsbury Fleur Gibbs Sarah Patterson • Opus 50 Charitable Trust GRAND CIRCLE ($100,000 – $249,999) Elizabeth Lithgow John & Jo Grigg Clare & David Pullar • Tallis Foundation Warwick & Paulette Bisley Dr Jack & Rosie McLeish Elizabeth Guinness Sue & Phillip Schudmak • Cochrane Schofield Fund Roz Zalewski & Jeremy Ruskin QC The Hon Justice John & Dr Anne Hamilton John E Smith Judith Middleton DRESS CIRCLE ($50,000 – $99,999) The Hon Justice Peter Heerey AM QC Peter Reilly & Linton Soderholm PROFESSIONAL PARTNERS Lady Potter AC & Sally Heerey Elizabeth & Tom Romanowski Diana Gibson AO The Late Nancy Peterson & Margaret & Trevor Holborow Mr Nick Ruskin & Ms Annette Shiell Anne & Peter Laver AM daughter Dale Johnson Dr Sam & Margaret Howes Aubrey Schrader Gwenda & John Lloyd Memorial Michael Robinson AO & Judith Robinson Scholarship Fund Darvell Hutchinson AM Lyndal & David Scott Graham Sellars-Jones Chrissy Hughes Smedley Family EVENTS PARTNER GALLERY CIRCLE ($25,000 – $49,999) Richard Stanley QC & Sue Stanley Lewis & Paula Johnson Russell & Margaret Smith Charles Allen AO & Jocelyn Allen Jennifer & David Sutherland William MP Jones Hugh & Elizabeth Taylor Janet Calvert-Jones AO & Dr Michael Troy Anne & Milan Kantor Dr George Tippett ACCOMMODATION PARTNER John Calvert-Jones AM Prof Mel & Nina Waters Bryan Keon-Cohen AM QC Barbara Yeoh Joe Diflo Michael Wheelahan SC & & June Keon-Cohen Helen Woods & Lewis Rowell Louise Gourlay OAM Cathryn Wheelahan Judge Kathryn Kings Lady April Hamer Paul Worthington Joy Laurence FRIENDS CIRCLE ($1 – $999) Peter Hansen OAM & Neroli Hansen The Melba Opera Trust also appreciates MELBA CIRCLE ($1,000 – $4,999) John & Erin Lidgerwood Andrew & Tracey Sisson Julie & Athol Lidgett the generosity of our Friends Circle of Dr Patricia Armstrong-Grant OBE which there are over 200 supporters Janet Limb BALCONY CIRCLE ($10,000 – $24,999) John Bate OAM & Liz Bate Dianne & Dr Bruce Livett MELBA’S WILL BEQUEST CIRCLE Betty Amsden OAM The Hon Justice David Beach & Marea Beach Colin Lovitt QC Dr Patricia Armstrong Grant OBE Nola & Ernest Dawes OBE Judy & Michael Begg Noreen Maher Michael Bertram Rose Downer & John Downer AM Marc Besen AO & Eva Besen AO David & Jane Martin Mary Ryllis-Clark

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