edition 12 AUTUMN In Melba’s Footsteps Covent Garden calls for Emily Edmonds Patrons bring opera into their everyday lives 015 2

Magazine of the Melba Opera Trust Shauntai Batzke, Harold Blair Opera Scholarship The Melba AUTUMN 2015 The Melba AUTUMN 2015

A Note From The 2015 general Manager Melba Page 2 – A Note from the Scholars General Manager – About Melba Opera Trust After 12 editions and 10 years of – 2015 Melba Scholars Melba activity, this will be my final Dame Nellie Melba Scholarship ‘Note from the GM’ for a time. In June Patrick & Vivian Gordon Award Page 3 Jade Moffat – Meet the Scholars I will be ‘retreating to the wings’ – Meet our new Director: to prepare for an entirely different Kate Shelmerdine role – that of new Mum. Amelia Joscelyne Memorial MEET THE SCHOLARS Scholarship Page 4 Whilst I am busy tuning in to a very new I am enormously proud of our singers. ‘performing’ arts company as such and Our ‘Meet The Scholars’ occasion is a highlight of Morgan Balfour Judy Anne Stewart, Margot Lady Burrell, Fleur Gibbs & Glenn Fryer with Nikki Hill – 2015 Scholars – Our Ladies voice, I am delighted to welcome to The successes we continue to share with many Melba Artist performances are our annual calendar and for good reason. With the cast Acting General Manager, Olivia you are testament to their incredible for private clients. However, we have Giglia. Olivia brings to this position a tenacity, commitment and resilience. heard your call and thanks to an exciting our national cohort and a program focussed on Page 5 breadth of arts management experience The road for an aspiring opera singer is new partnership with Melbourne Recital John & Elizabeth Wright-Smith delivering a tailored development approach for – Covent Garden calls for with the artistic understanding of a undeniably tough. Having seen first-hand Centre, we have two wonderful concerts Scholarship Emily Edmonds Bachelor of Music. I know that Olivia the heart-wrenching disappointments scheduled in the Salon later this year each singer, ‘Meet the Scholars’ not only provides is looking forward to connecting with and sacrifices that often underpin (please see details below). Nicholas Tolputt everyone at future Melba events and these successes, I can truly say that our supporters with the opportunity to meet – and Page 6 – 7 Featuring scholars and alumni, these will be a superb champion for our Melba scholars are a source of inspiration. concerts are a new Melba Opera Trust importantly hear – current scholars, but is also one – A Little Legacy Goes a Long Way program. We have developed a framework initiative and we would love for our Joseph Sambrook Opera of the few occasions that the scholars perform In the process of preparing my handover to provide the breadth of skills that scholars to perform to a ‘full house’ Scholarship Page 8 I have enjoyed some reflective moments our singers need in order to propel so please tell your friends. In closing, I together as a group. – 2015 Scholars – Our Gentlemen around the journey and impact of this their careers forward. At the same offer my personal thanks to everyone Jeremy Kleeman dynamic organisation. time, however, success relies on the who has been involved with the Melba, Of the 34 young singers who have individual singer embracing the process including my terrific team in the office. John & Liz Wright Smith with Nicholas Tolputt Kate & Stephen AM Shelmerdine with Page 9 Shauntai Batzke participated in our program, 16 of our and realising the opportunities being I look forward to reading all about the Harold Blair Opera Scholarship & – In Master Class with Daria Masiero presented – a partnership in the truest next exciting chapter in the Spring alumni are successfully establishing Mel & Nina Waters Scholarship – Learning the Art of Ensemble international careers and another 14 sense of the word. edition. This year, over 100 supporters gathered 2015, including several workshops and “The (Melba Opera) Trust has made the friends, but it’s the Melba family that “It’s really wonderful to watch the are engaged professionally with either This culture of partnership extends Shauntai Batzke in the intimate yet grand dining room performances with Australian National transformation from university life into have agreed to make an investment in scholars interact with the supporters. national, state-based or independent beyond the program into our BAROQUE TO BROADWAY Page 10 – 11 of The Australian Club in Melbourne. To Academy of Music (see page 9 for more the industry seamless. I sometimes our exciting futures. For this we have As the night progresses you can see touring opera companies. That is quite community. Over the past six years, the Monday 20 July, 6.00 pm – Supporting the Journey – commence formalities Chair of Melba information) and a partnership with refer to it a bit like an opera finishing a responsibility. If it wasn’t for your the confidence in the scholars growing a remarkable outcome given that our opportunity to read in these pages how a personal approach... Featuring: Margaret Schofield Opera Opera Trust, Robert G Logie-Smith, Melbourne Recital Centre resulting in school. The program allows me to generosity and time we would not be and it’s gratifying to see the enjoyment program began just six years ago. our programs have evolved has inspired Nikki Hill Scholarship & Ruskin Opera addressed the community sharing two concerts in the Salon later this year. continue my opera training but in the sitting here today. We thank you for your the benefactors receive from getting to In 2008 we launched a ‘promise’ that many of you to personally invest in updates of alumni achievements and Of course the feature of the evening most personalized manner. I can choose ongoing support and hope that you will know these impressive young people. Page 12 was founded on an entirely unique helping to ensure the careers of these Jade Moffat Award efforts underway to increase Melba was the 40 minute musical program which vocal teacher, vocal coaches, continue to do so in whichever form It works both ways – the scholars are – Letters from Abroad approach to operatic development: exceptional young people. Brenton Spiteri Nikki Hill Opera Trust’s presence in Sydney. Focus presented by this year’s Melba scholars. language classes and acting courses that possible, to enable young emerging similarly inspired by conversations they balancing professional business know- Thanks to the Melba family, we raised – ‘Twilight in the Garden’: Daniel Carison on building funds for the endowment Artistic Advisor, Sharolyn Kimmorley I want to take part in. It has enabled artists like us with the best chance of have, the impact of the support they are how with artistic development. In $6.5 million for our capital endowment. remains of highest importance and me to grow considerably as an artist creating a career in opera.’ being given becomes more meaningful Melba at Beleura Stefan Cassomenos AM travelled especially from Sydney addition we believed that our most Our goal is $9.5 million which would whilst the endowment has grown from to prepare and accompany the and I have discovered a new found Following the performances, the and they become very motivated!” outstanding young operatic talents provide financial sustainability and RJ Hamer Opera Scholarship $3.5 million to $6.5 million thanks performance – an extension on the confidence.” scholars were able to enjoy a relaxed As always, our event partner, De Bortoli, should be nurtured here, in Australia, to guarantee that the stories of success in Zoe Drummond to donations, pledges and bequests, intensive work she has been undertaking Nikki also offered personal thanks on reception with supporters. For many it was a cornerstone of the occasion. After ensure that they have the best chance the pages of The Melba will continue for AN DIE MUSIK Logie-Smith stressed the importance of with the scholars since they commenced behalf of the scholars: was the first time they were introduced an evening of fine wine and fine music, at establishing a professional operatic future generations of aspiring Australian Tuesday 1 September, 6.00 pm raising another $3 million to achieve full the program in early January. “Knowing that each and every one of to those benefactors behind their it is fair to say a memorable night was career, be that in Australia or overseas. talent. Featuring: sustainability for the program. Opera Society Vocal Scholarship & In a gesture of gratitude, second-time you are supporting us every step of named scholarship. Amy Black highlights had by all. We were – and still are – a small Clearly our journey is not yet complete Alexandra Flood Beleura-Tallis Opera Scholarship Continuing the announcements, General scholar Nikki Hill addressed the audience the way makes it impossible to give up that this is one of the most rewarding organisation with big aspirations and and we ask you to continue your manager, Amy Black, spoke briefly about aspects of the evening. Nicholas Tolputt on behalf of her fellow scholars speaking when we are faced with challenges. It’s a potent legacy to uphold. As a result support, be it through tax deductible Daniel Carison the collaborative projects in store for compellingly about what being a Melba not just our parents and close we now have exceptional young artists donations, an annually pledged gift or Jeremy Kleeman scholar has meant for her: pursuing operatic careers in London, a lasting bequest. Every contribution Stefan Cassomenos New York, San Francisco, Manchester, brings us closer to ensuring that we Munich, Berlin, Switzerland, Salzburg, remain Australia’s premier scholarship Associate Repetiteur Ticket info Lyon, New Zealand and Wales not program for our most promising operatic Stefan Cassomenos to mention Melbourne, Sydney and talent. Tickets $38.00 ($28.00 concession) Brisbane. Finally, I am often asked by our Visit melbournerecital.com.au Meet our New Director: supporters where they can hear for ticket bookings our scholars perform? We are not a Kate Shelmerdine

Kate joins us with impressive and highly- of arts training organisations and their be critical to success are: the capacity large organisation. While relationships This newsletter is printed on Sovereign Offset derived from well-managed forests and other relevant credentials. She is a member contribution to the arts ecology of any for independence; determination to with structures like universities can controlled sources certified against Forest of The Myer Foundation and is currently country. These include The Australian succeed; resilience against knock-back be immensely valuable, it is vital that Stewardship Council ® standards, a non-profit organisation devoted to encouraging the About Convenor of the Arts and Humanities Ballet School, NIDA, ANAM, The Fruit and rejection; good, basic business skills; small training bodies have the capacity responsible management of the world’s forests. Committee of the Sidney Myer Fund. Flies, The Australian Youth Orchestra, the ability to collaborate artistically and to remain protected from external

Dame Nellie Melba Opera Trust Among other positions, she was a Board NAISDA, the VCA, WAPA, PICA, as well intellectually; flexibility; and a strong political and fiscal changes, which ABN 96 424 419 725 Member of the National Institute of as, of course, NICA, with which I have network which one uses and nurtures, may undermine the integrity of their Suite 501 434 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004 Phone (03) 9867 4833 Facsimile (03) 9867 3364 Circus Arts (NICA) for over 10 years. Kate had the closest association. Melba Opera for example. purpose.” www.melbaoperatrust.com.au Melba Opera Trust is already proving to be a proactive and Trust is another of these organisations, All these factors are a part of the strong And finally, on her aims as a Board Copy and editing – Jillian Graham creative contributor to the work of the focussing as it does on élite training for Mentor Program offered to the Melba member: Melba Opera Trust is Australia’s premier scholarship Melba Board. young people in arts excellence. While Images by Les O’Rourke Photography scholars. Combined with the Mentor “I would like an increased emphasis unless otherwise credited Kate explains what drew her to Melba the art forms in which each organisation Program are the other critical elements program for promising young opera singers. Driven trains are very different, there are on attracting young people (peers of Design by Malt Creative Opera Trust: of performance (enabling the scholars the scholars) to further understand, www.maltcreative.com.au by Dame Nellie Melba’s conviction “a beautiful voice many key overlapping skills, which all to experience different performance “I have a personal historical connection emerging artists require to establish a appreciate and support the work the For more information relating to advertising within is not enough”, the program nurtures artistic MELBA OPERA with the Melba Conservatorium. As spaces), and funding provided through scholars are doing. Opera is an acquired this publication please contact Melba Opera Trust. foothold in their industry or art form the generosity of the Trust’s benefactors. TRUST IS THRILLED such, I have known about Melba Opera after graduation. taste, but such a wonderful art form To unsubscribe in relation to receiving this development alongside business training, mentoring Trust since its inception and have They fully appreciate the need to invest when experienced at its best. The work publication, please contact Melba Opera Trust. TO WELCOME KATE always admired the work it does. I am The unique element that characterises in the future of opera, and can see the of educating, nurturing and enticing the and performance experience. We are the next step for Melba Opera Trust is its focus on these potential of these gifted young singers.” SHELMERDINE TO particularly impressed by the lean fiscal next generation of opera audiences is singers preparing to become professionals on the way in which it is managed and I have specific skills. The space between And a word on governance: one of the things I would like to help THE BOARD IN 2015. great respect for the patrons who, in graduation and employment is, as we progress. world stage. know, highly competitive, and can “In terms of structure, I am extremely combination with the Melba Estate, are pleased that Melba Opera Trust I LOVE Melba Opera Trust, and I am the very reason it exists. be very challenging. Over and above Inspiring Excellence – Realising Potential – Forging Careers technical excellence and an inspiring adopted an independent governance looking forward to working with all I strongly believe in the importance artistic aesthetic, elements which can model, free from association with a those involved with it!”

Page 2 Page 3 The Melba AUTUMN 2015 The Melba AUTUMN 2015 2015 scholars our ladies

“I value the personal support I receive No stranger to the stage, Shauntai “As a toddler I would dress up as from Melba Opera Trust very highly. recently performed alongside her Mary Poppins, singing directions at One unique example of this is that I colleague, bass-baritone Daniel Carison, my cupboards to tidy themselves, or grew up riding horses, but due to my in a private Melba Artists recital at The as Snow White serenading the birds opera commitments, I don’t go home Australian Club. The two were fellow while waiting for them to land on my often. Last year, John and Elizabeth students at Melbourne University, and finger. My mother tells a story of me as Wright-Smith, very generous supporters had always hoped for an opportunity to a pre-schooler, when I was apparently of the Trust, insisted that I visit their sing together, so this was an enjoyable captivated by a television commercial farm in the Yarra Valley to go horse experience for both on a number of for ‘The 3 Chinese Tenors’ regional tour, riding! This was very special for me.” levels. and I begged my parents to take me. As for all scholars, Melba performances 2015 is also a year of auditions for No doubt she thought I was quite a form a vital part of Nikki’s Shauntai, as she works to establish her peculiar child!” development. The opportunity to sing singing career further: Zoe is currently enjoying learning new at Coombe Cottage for Melba patron “I’ve started auditioning for opera repertoire for opera recitals in May to Jenny Sutherland and her husband companies in Melbourne and summer be given by Voci Stupende, a group David’s 50th wedding anniversary in schools here and overseas. I’m excited of singers who studied at the Sydney March was a highlight of Nikki’s Melba about beginning to launch myself into Conservatorium. In June, she will sing engagements so far this year. She the wide world of opera. With the at the 140th centenary of Her Majesty’s Covent Garden recently enjoyed singing at a private incredible support of Melba, my teacher Theatre in Ballarat, an opportunity birthday celebration for Melba Board Liane Keegan, Short Black Opera, friends she considers to be quite an honour, member and supporter Roz Ruskin at a and family, I am confident that by taking as “Dame Nellie herself performed restaurant in North Fitzroy. As well she every opportunity and making steady numerous recitals in this glorious is excited to take part in the Melbourne steps towards my ultimate goal, I will theatre”. And in July she will make a calls for Emily Edmonds Recital Centre’s ‘Local Heroes’ series in soon see some of my dreams to sing quick trip to China with the 7 Sopranos. the Salon later this year. in opera, concert halls and classical As a Melba scholar, Zoe also has Nikki has also appreciated the musicals come to fruition.” many Melba Artists and other Trust- personalised training program her Shauntai holds a Bachelor of Music from related performances on the horizon, MEZZO-SOPRANO EMILY EDMONDS, PAST RECIPIENT OF THE Melba involvement has allowed her to opportunities she refers to as “another the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music DAME NELLIE MELBA OPERA SCHOLARSHIP AND THE PATRICK design, and has particularly valued the at the University of Melbourne. great aspect of the perfectly-designed opportunities to improve her language program that allows the scholar to AND VIVIAN GORDON AWARD, IS THE FOURTH MEMBER OF skills and develop important networks: embark on personalised training of the “I recently spent time studying Italian highest quality, as well as providing MELBA OPERA TRUST’S ALUMNI TO JOIN THE ROYAL OPERA’S in Montepulciano in Tuscany, and now Zoe Drummond workshops, master classes, and JETTE PARKER YOUNG ARTISTS PROGRAMME. that I have a grasp on that language, (Soprano) mentoring”. I’m moving on to German. While I was RJ Hamer Opera Scholarship Zoe’s aims for 2015 include The young artists selected for this “I will be able to learn from some of overseas, I was able to spend time consolidating and polishing her classical program are employed as salaried the best, be a part of an incredible in London working with the amazing Zoe Drummond has already received singing skills, with languages, vocal many awards and has performed members of the Royal Opera for a international opera company, and Yvonne Kenny, whom I’d met through technique and repertoire development two-year period that allows them to work hard to develop my identity as Shauntai Batzke, Morgan Balfour, Nikki Hill, Zoe Drummond & Jade Moffat as a soloist on numerous occasions, the Trust six months prior. I also met up as priorities: be ‘immersed in the life of the Royal a professional musician. What the with Lauren Fagan and Emily Edmonds, including having been selected during her final year to represent the Sydney “To reach and sustain a high standard, Opera House’ and includes extensive programme offers with regard to previous Melba scholars who’ve made a singer must have regular lessons, daily coaching in languages, stagecraft coaching, language tuition, stagecraft it into the Jette Parker Young Artists Conservatorium at the inaugural Estivo Chamber Music Festival in Verona, Italy. coaching and training. With the support and vocal techniques as well as and movement training is exceptional, Program at Covent Garden. It’s quite of Melba Opera Trust programs, I have performance opportunities. and I am thrilled to have such an exploring repertoire, and also putting I’m going to do”. I can’t even remember exciting event for Morgan, prior to her Here she performed in vocal recitals and Jade Moffat special to think that you will find people the resources, time, energy and drive to opportunity.” my networking and negotiating skills to what made me say that – I just knew departure to Hawaii, was to sing for studied with some of the world’s most While abroad in 2014, Melba Opera (Mezzo-Soprano) connected to the Trust pretty much really fine-tune my singing.” work!” that’s what I wanted to do, and I haven’t Emma Matthews in Master Class for the anywhere in the world. And to top it prestigious vocal teachers. Trust General Manager Amy Black met Emily’s credentials to date stand her Dame Nellie Melba Scholarship and Zoe holds a Bachelor of Music in with David Gowland, Artistic Director at in good stead for her forthcoming Before she leaves for Guildhall, Jade really done anything else since!” Joscelyne community in early May. As all off, when I fill out the ‘Occupation’ Although Zoe is the first in her family Patrick & Vivian Gordon Award Performance (Voice) with First Covent Garden, and she is proud of the involvement in this programme. She will be joining alumna Alexandra Flood Morgan has already taken to the stage the Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholar, window of my international arrivals to become a professional musician, she Class Honours from the Sydney relationship that Melba Opera Trust is is a First Class Honours graduate in Jade Moffat feels ‘blessed’ to have been and current scholar Daniel Carison for as a soloist in a number of operas and Morgan was thrilled to sing for Mary- card now, I feel I can write ‘Opera comes from a ‘musically-enthusiastic, Conservatorium of Music. building with the programme. Vocal Performance from the Sydney chosen as a scholar for a second time: an Emerging Artists concert at the oratorios, and has toured overseas as a Jane Joscelyne and her friends. Singer’. Now that’s quite something!’ incredibly supportive and interested’ Conservatorium and has an impressive Australian Club on Thursday 6th August. member of the 7 Sopranos. By now she “I really loved singing for the Joscelyne family. Singing has always been a part “It was clear from speaking with David “I had some amazing experiences Nikki holds a Bachelor of Music from list of roles to her name. Emily has also is well aware of the challenges faced by community and the opportunity to of her life: that the Jette Parker programme is through Melba Opera Trust last year, Jade holds a Bachelor of Music in the Queensland Conservatorium of completed a Young Artists Programme young opera singers trying to develop meet them. I was invited to tea with a Young Artist program in the truest highlights included working with Advanced Performance (Classical Voice) Music. with Pacific Opera Company, and professional careers, and is prepared to Mary Jane recently, which was really sense. It has a philosophy of looking Chuck Hudson and Yvonne Kenny AM. from the Queensland Conservatorium of received an Australia Council for the work hard. lovely, and I think it’s amazing how she after its artists, actively crafting their I made quite a lot of progress with Music. Arts ArtStart grant allowing her to has gathered all these people together development and offering appropriate my technique and gained confidence “Every step yields both challenges and continue her studies abroad in 2014. in Amelia’s memory. I am honoured to Shauntai Batzke roles. It is exactly the calibre of in performing. In my second year, I rewards. You have to be accomplished This was “a fantastic year of valuable be the ‘Amelia Scholar’ and extremely (Soprano) program that we are hoping to prepare hope to continue working on dramatic in many areas apart from singing, input, learning, and refining on a broad Emily Edmonds as a Melba scholar working grateful for the opportunity.” our scholars for and I am absolutely with Teddy Tahu-Rhodes, 2014 interpretation, as well as getting my Morgan Balfour especially when there are so many Harold Blair Opera Scholarship and delighted for Emily.” scale”. technique to a really solid place before (Soprano) sopranos out there aiming for the Morgan holds a Bachelor of Music in Mel & Nina Waters Scholarship With all that lies ahead, Emily has given I move to London in September to take same roles. And I think it’s important to Advanced Performance (Classical Voice) In September Emily will join fellow Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship Returning scholar, soprano Shauntai some thought to the biggest challenges up a scholarship at the Guildhall School remember that it’s really a subjective art from the Queensland Conservatorium Melba alumni – soprano Lauren Fagan, Batzke, felt she learned and achieved facing young singers at the moment: of Music. I am very excited about that Sydney-based, Brisbane-born Morgan form. One person will love what you’re of Music. tenor Samuel Sakker and baritone Emily is already working on building a lot during her first year with Melba and also about having the opportunity Balfour has always loved singing. doing, while another will ask, “Why are Samuel Johnson – at the Royal Opera her London connections, performing Opera Trust: to work again with Yvonne Kenny. As While her grandmother on her father’s you singing that?” And someone might House with other successful applicants, “It’s very important that recently with fellow Melba alumna we all know, to be an accomplished side was a soprano and her great say, “You’re really suited to this role”, “During 2014, my confidence in myself Mantra for Melba... Russian soprano Vlada Borovko, Irish we are able to feel at Panayiota Kalatzis on behalf of the Tait opera singer, you need more than a grandmother on her mother’s side was while the next person will say, ‘You’re Nikki Hill as an opera singer grew. My technique soprano Jennifer Davis, Korean tenor home anywhere in the Foundation for ‘Shakespeare in the beautiful voice – it’s definitely a difficult Salon’. a mezzo-soprano, Morgan’s parents not what we envisage for this character”. (Soprano) improved and I developed on many We are thrilled that Mantra St Kilda David Junghoon Kim, British bass David world, because so often path to choose – so it’s wonderful and are not musicians. They have, however, levels. I also built stronger connections Shipley and British stage director If it’s really what you want to do, you Margaret Schofield Opera Scholarship we must live and work Before relocating to London, Emily motivating to have an incredible team encouraged her to pursue her desire to with some of the best artists in the Road has again agreed to come on Richard Gerard Jones. These artists just have to keep slogging away.” and Ruskin Opera Award away from family and is busy continuing her development of people supporting you every step of sing. She started having lessons at the industry. I took every opportunity that board with Melba Opera Trust in 2015 were selected from a field of 370 In July, Morgan will travel to the Hawaii and preparing roles. You can see the way.” age of 9, when her mother decided that Queensland born, Sydney-based was available and in doing so, learned applicants from 59 countries through a friends. For this reason, Performing Arts Festival, the result of a Emily perform the role of Asteria in if she was going to be constantly singing soprano Nikki Hill is in her second more about the capabilities of the voice as our accommodation partner. rigorous audition process. I think that the biggest The recipient of many awards and prize she won through her performance Pinchgut’s production of Bajazet in around the house, she may as well year as a Melba scholar. She finds she I was blessed with. I will continue to challenges for young scholarships, as well as being a in the Joan Sutherland and Richard Not surprisingly, Emily is very excited Sydney in July, and Emily will also be do it well! It appears this was a sound can now articulate well to the many pursue excellence, with the ultimate Melba Opera Trust Managing To enjoy Mantra’s hospitality first singers are striving seasoned performer and soloist in Bonynge Bel Canto competition last about her acceptance into this appearing on behalf of Melba Opera decision. people who ask exactly what it is that aim of touching the lives of people both Director, Peter Garnick notes hand, don’t forget to access our for balance, finding opera and oratorio, Jade expects to year. There she will sing the role of programme at the forefront of young Trust at a Sydney Soiree in early Melba Opera Trust provides for her in Australia and overseas.” Mantra’s exemplary facilities and exclusive ‘Melba supporter’ rate be very busy in Australia prior to “I absolutely loved every minute of artists’ development: a strong sense of self, August. Pamina in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte. But and other young opera singers. For that they ensure “our travelling when booking your accommodation. her relocation to London. As well as it. Later I went for an audition for the Shauntai has a big year planned for and being able to build before that, she has a number of singing Nikki, being part of the ‘Melba family’ singers are in the best shape Simply enter ‘Melba’ as the We congratulate Emily Edmonds entering various competitions, Jade will Young Conservatorium Program at the her second year as a Melba scholar. communities wherever engagements for Melba Opera Trust. support network has been particularly to reap the full benefits of their promotion code, call them on and look forward to keeping readers host several fundraising recitals in the Queensland Conservatorium, and heard As well as her Melba commitments, In May, she took part in the ‘Art Song meaningful, as her own family, while intensive Melbourne training (03) 9525 0400 or email we find ourselves.” informed of her latest developments. coming months: one of the music students warming up she is a developing artist with Short Workshop’ in collaboration with ANAM, very supportive of her endeavours, is activities”. [email protected]. in the room that actually ended up being Black Opera Company, Australia’s first “This is my first time organising events and at the ‘Melbourne Green’ Ball held more knowledgeable about specific mine when I became a student. She and only Indigenous Opera Company, like this, and even though it comes with at the Royal Exhibition Building. In June, sports than opera: its challenges, I am having a great time was singing scales, I think, and I turned she will perform in a recital at the Italian and maintains her position as an to my mum and said, “Yes, that’s what Cultural Institute. But perhaps the most established Gospel singer-songwriter.

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A little legacy:

A piece goes a long way of Melba’s history… History repeating for Recently, Shauntai Batzke… admirers of MELBA’s WILL In Melba’s our first prima donna were – The legacy Footsteps… given the rare of a lifetime opportunity to take home their own little ‘piece of Melba’ with Sotheby’s auctioning Emily Edmonds at Australian Opera Awards Committee performance a small Yet another legacy being selection of championed by current scholars is her personal that of Australia’s first Indigenous treasures. opera singer, tenor Harold Blair THROUGH HER (1924-1976). As well as being a leading In a show of continuing BEQUEST IN 1931, Jade Moffat performing at Meet the Scholars operatic voice in Australia in the enthusiasm for Melba’s great DAME NELLIE MELBA legacy, auction results far ENSURED THAT ‘60s, Harold was also an alumnus surpassed initial expectation, IN 1931 WHEN MELBA BEQUEATHED HER SCHOLARSHIP TO reporting a total of $1.99 million, her support for of the Albert Street (later Melba) SUPPORT YOUNG AUSTRALIAN SINGERS “IN THE HOPE THAT nearly four times the pre-auction Australia’s emerging Conservatorium and taught at the estimate values of the 162 items. ANOTHER MELBA MAY ARISE”, COULD SHE HAVE IMAGINED THAT operatic talents institution. The auction was held at the Grand would forever 84 YEARS LATER HER IMPACT RESOUNDS STRONGER THAN EVER? Hyatt Melbourne following a 10-day exhibition in Sydney and be preserved for Four years ago, Melba Opera Trust We are proud to report that Shauntai Melbourne at Sotheby’s Australia Indeed it’s been a journey of success for Giannetta in Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore When singers left Madame Marchesi’s future generations launched the Harold Blair Opera is one of 16 to have been accepted. In galleries. A reported 1,000 visitors the Dame Nellie Melba Scholarship. The with only a few hours’ notice. I’ve also care, they could hold their own in any Scholarship, established in Harold’s July, Shauntai will travel to New York to viewed Asian, Australian and last three recipients of this historically sung two shows as Oskar in Verdi’s Un opera house in Europe and in the top of aspiring singers. honour and to ensure that promising participate in this three week summer European art, decorative arts, significant and prestigious scholarship ballo in maschera, a major role opposite ranks of European society. They had young Australian Indigenous singers program, working intensively with vocal jewels and objects of vertu with are following directly in our prima Joseph Calleja and Dmitri Hvorostovsky. opportunities to perform, as well as Nearly a century later the power of have the opportunities they need to and coaching staff from the Metropolitan the historic sale attracting 400 donna’s own footsteps – to further their It’s incredible to have been trusted to communal and individual lessons, Melba’s foresight lives on in the music- excel. Current recipient, Shauntai Batzke, Opera. registered bidders from ‘all corners development in her ‘operatic home’ – go on the stage of the Royal Opera opera and music history, acting, and making of our Melba scholars – a has been the recipient of this support Whilst this may not necessarily be of the globe’. London! House after only three months on the mime classes. Deportment classes were quintessential example of the lasting for the last two years and is not only history repeating in the true sense, programme, and I am sure this is due in also important, as it was there that impact of a legacy gift. The significance of Melba’s continuing strongly representing Harold’s memory, we know that thanks to her work with part to the experience I gained through students learned how to sit, walk and influence is not lost on recipients Jade but like her fellow Melba colleagues, is Melba Opera Trust and Short Black If you would like to learn more about the programs. eat elegantly, as well as how to receive Moffat (2014-2015), Emily Edmonds now following directly in his footsteps! Opera, Shauntai is ready to embark on how to make a bequest to Melba guests and how to keep their heads in (2013) and Lauren Fagan (2011-2012). I’m now really looking forward to Following his musical education at this journey and will no doubt return to Opera Trust, we would love to hear any situation. from you and help you to create a In September this year, current singing the Leila/Zurga duet from Bizet’s the Conservatorium, Harold’s talent Australia as enriched with knowledge as meaningful legacy gift. Our Melba’s scholar, Jade Moffat, will take up a full The Pearl Fishers with fellow Melba Melba’s art certainly developed greatly was recognised by visiting American Harold was. alumnus Samuel Johnson in our end of in the time she spent at École Marchesi. Will bequest information also includes scholarship at the Guildhall School of baritone, Todd Duncan. Todd was so Our sincere thanks to supporters of year showcase recital. This will be on Towards the end of her time there, possible legal wording for your Music Opera Course in London, and taken with Harold that he invited him the Harold Blair Opera Scholarship the main stage with orchestra and will she made her debut at the renowned convenience. looks forward to studying further with to travel to America to continue his for making sure the support – and be particularly special, as my principle Théâtre de la Monnaie in Brussels Australian soprano and Melba Mentor, operatic studies. Harold embraced this consequently this opportunity – has Examples for how you might consider mentor from Australia, Melba Trust in October 1887 as Gilda in Verdi’s Yvonne Kenny AM. opportunity and it was the beginning been made available to Shauntai. directing your bequest include: Artistic Advisor Sharolyn Kimmorley AM, Rigoletto. And it was only after her time of an operatic career that would follow • Establishing a fully endowed, Emily Edmonds will re-locate to London will be there to watch! with Marchesi that Melba could establish Harold back to Australia. To support the Harold Blair Opera later in 2015 to take up a place in the Scholarship with a tax-deductible named scholarship I won’t ever lose the special feeling I herself as the leading lyric soprano at Jette Parker Young Artists Programme at Inspired by this and a hunger to continue donation, please call: 03 9867 4833 get when I cross behind the stage of Covent Garden after 1888. • A general endowment contribution Covent Garden, the fourth Melba scholar her own operatic development abroad, Email: [email protected] the Opera House, let alone stand on it Perhaps just as Melba benefited from to be used where most needed to do so: Shauntai Batzke applied for a position or visit www.melbaoperatrust.com.au to sing”. her comprehensive period of study at • Program funding (Mentor, in the Cantos de las Americas – A “It is extraordinary to think of all the École Marchesi, so too have Jade, Emily Performance, Indigenous, So how is it these young singers have Workshop for Aspiring Artists in the brilliant people who have performed and Lauren over their tenure with Melba Vocal Arts. Repetiteur) and on the stage at the Royal Opera House, been able to replicate Melba’s path so closely? Melba expert and author of I am Opera Trust. Fortunately for them, and • Contributions toward existing including Dame Nellie Melba herself! Melba, Ann Blainey, wonders whether thanks to the pioneering efforts of Dame scholarships The thought of singing in the same place Nellie, they didn’t have to travel all the as Melba and so many great Australian it could be the similarity between For those supporters who would like to way to Paris for their ‘finishing touches’! singers is really awe-inspiring.” Mathilde Marchesi’s ‘finishing school’ Lauren Fagan & Samuel Sakker at Royal Opera enjoy the fruits of their commitment, for prima donna’s in Paris which Melba The Melba is grateful to Ann Blainey for House (Image coutesy of Catherine Ashmore) we hope you will notify us of your Lauren is in her first year in the Jette attended in 1887, and the Melba Opera her input into this article. decision so we can invite you to join us Parker Young Artists Programme, and is Trust’s own 21st century-version of such for special Melba’s Will occasions. already making her mark: a program? For more information on bequests “I have been given incredible Like Melba Opera Trust, the aim at contact Peter Garnick on 03 9867 4833 opportunities to jump in for the main École Marchesi was to give a brilliant or [email protected] stars at the last moment. I played finish to an already well-trained voice.

Page 6 Page 7 The Melba AUTUMN 2015 The Melba AUTUMN 2015 2015 scholars our gentlemen

Nicholas Tolputt It was a privilege to be invited to John “The Mentor Program is (Counter-Tenor) and Liz’s beautiful property to perform facilitating the skills for them. It is always wonderful to needed to survive in John and Elizabeth Wright-Smith sing for such an appreciative and this industry. The more Scholarship enthusiastic audience and it felt very I take part, the more I’m Stefan Cassomenos in master class, with (credit Belinda Strodder) Nicholas Tolputt is the first counter- special to be able to help celebrate sold on it, because while tenor to receive support from Melba John’s birthday!” you might be strong in some areas, you can let Opera Trust. A former baritone, Nicholas Nicholas is delighted with his Stefan Cassomenos made the switch only a month before experience of the Trust’s program to yourself down in others. he moved to Melbourne from Tasmania date: It’s also really beneficial Associate Repetiteur to have the opportunity to take up a place at the Melbourne Stefan is ‘hugely enjoying’ his second Conservatorium of Music. “The opportunities made available are to make connections enabling me to develop as an artist in year as Associate Repetiteur with daria with people who are Melba Opera Trust. Thanks to funding all areas of the operatic field, and are both wonderful artists “During a lesson with from the Helen Macpherson Smith providing invaluable support for my and passionate about the my wonderful singing Trust, Stefan continues to benefit from teacher Benjamin future career. My focuses and highlights industry. And as a singer Daniel, Morgan, intensive training in skills essential to Jeremy, Zoe & include intensive German language in my early 20s, I find Martin, I stumbled any repetiteur. “It has given me the Jade with across the option of sessions, repertoire and historically- the necessary materials Daria Masiero informed performance coaching, and opportunity to continue my Italian and masiero and resources can be singing as a counter- German language study, as well as the chance to study with national and expensive—paying for tenor while doing extending my knowledge of the opera international performing artists at the regular singing lessons Mogran Balfour & Daria Masiero scales one day. I JUST repertoire with various mentors.” KEPT SINGING HIGHER AND top of their field. I plan to make the out of my own pocket HIGHER UNTIL I BROKE most of my time as a Melba scholar to would be difficult.” In the first months of 2015, Stefan has gain a deeper knowledge of my own performed on several occasions with INTO MY FALSETTO, AND I such a master of her craft. I really loved voice.’ Apart from his involvement with Melba scholars. In particular, he was The Mentor Program for 2015 is well underway, FOUND THAT THE SOUND performing ‘Quando m’en vo’ from the Mentor Program, 2015 is a busy delighted to join with Melba colleague I COULD MAKE THERE WAS Nicholas holds a Bachelor of Music with three of the seven blocks completed already. Puccini’s La bohème for her, as she had performing year for Daniel. In May he bass-baritone Jeremy Kleeman in a ALL RIGHT! SO I STARTED AT from the Melbourne Conservatorium of such a clear idea of how the music and will take the role of the Pirate King for private soiree for patrons Joe Sambrook THE MCM AS A COUNTER- Music at the University of Melbourne. The first master class of the year focused character should be communicated. Gilbert & Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance and Mary-Jane Gething in March. He TENOR AND HAVEN’T I particularly found her imagery for for the Savoy Opera Company, as well also had ”great fun playing a terrific exclusively on Italian repertoire and was delivered LOOKED BACK.” breathing very beneficial. I felt proud as singing in the ensemble for Opera program” at recent Melba Opera Trust by internationally-acclaimed Italian soprano, to be complimented on my Italian While Nicholas grew up in a house filled Australia’s production of Verdi’s Don performance as part of the Bayside Daniel Carison too! And then a few weeks ago, I was with music, it was not classical music: Carlos. In July he will be part of Stephen ‘Resonance’ Series. Daria Masiero. (Bass-Baritone) lucky enough to see Daria perform the Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s Sweeney “I’m not certain what drew me Not often idle, Stefan will continue role of Aida in a dress rehearsal for Opera Society Vocal Scholarship and Todd for Victorian Opera. In amongst Thanks to the continued support of language repertoire. She was certainly Over a private industry lunch with to classical music, but my earliest coaching with Melba’s own Sharolyn ‘Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour’. It Beleura-Tallis Opera Scholarship this, Daniel will sing in exclusive events Lady Southey AC, a small number able to correct any pronunciation the scholars, Daria emphasized the memories are of lying on the bed Kimmorley AM and will also have the was fascinating to watch her put her for Melba Artists; he has already of guests were invited to Cranlana anomalies, and to illustrate how good importance of travel in order for listening to ABC Classic FM. Nowadays I As a musician and actor, Daniel Carison opportunity to be coached by visiting technique into practice.” performed in honour of the suppporters to observe Daria working with the pronunciation helps one to sing better scholars to develop an international Nicholas Tolputt, Daniel Carison & Jeremy Kleeman listen to pretty much nothing else, other has performed as soloist and ensemble repetiteurs, Jennifer Marten-Smith and behind his scholarship. In March, Daniel scholars. technically, but she also conveyed understanding of the opera world. After There is still much for our singers to than perhaps a touch of jazz every now member in opera, as well as in Semyon Rozin. to the singers her love for her native all, as opera singers, they are world look forward to in the four Mentor and then.” operetta, recitals, musicals and straight performed for the Opera Society at Daria worked with our singers last year A key aspect of the Associate Repetiteur Program blocks yet to come. There are dramas. He has won awards for both a luncheon at Coombe – The Melba and, according to Melba Opera Trust language. It is almost impossible to employees. Ms Masiero is keen to In 2013, Nicholas gave a recital back in scholarship charges Stefan with the some familiar faces, but also some his opera-singing and acting. With a Estate and, more recently, for the Tallis Program Coordinator, Bruce Raggatt, overstate Daria’s warmth and the joy continue assisting and advising Melba his home town of Launceston to raise responsibility of not only accompanying new industry experts we welcome to father and grandfather who were actors Foundation in ‘Twilight in the Garden’ at was much loved on both occasions: she has in working with young singers. scholars through her Melba Opera Trust funds to travel to the Schola Cantorum scholars, but also musically preparing Jeremy Kleeman suggesting that my character was and musicians, the stage has long Beleura. “ And for their part, they lapped it up involvement. our Faculty of Mentors. Basiliensis in Switzerland to study with them. Mentoring by Sharolyn is “Daria’s wonderfully engaging with understandable keenness.” completely wrong! I thank him for it played an important role in Daniel’s life: Performing in Melba Artists concerts is For first-time Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust thanks Opus (Bass-Baritone) renowned counter-tenor Andreas Scholl. essential to mastering this process and personality and passion for singing now though. There is a reason Paul “As I grew up, my father performed in training me to be really adaptable, as we Daria praised the Mentor Program scholar, soprano Zoe Drummond, the 40 Charitable Fund and Creative Joseph Sambrook Opera Scholarship Further travel is on the horizon, as is the benefit of a second year cannot be in Italian made her a huge hit and Curran is working at the top opera sing a variety of repertoire, which means claiming that in Italy there “is nothing experience was ‘really wonderful’: Partnerships Australia for their support another solo fund-raising concert in musical theatre, and did a lot of stage understated: an obvious candidate to present In his second year as Melba Opera houses in the world. He was very tough to compare with this program and the of the Mentor Program. Tasmania, since he has been awarded work. I’d often sit with him while he it’s necessary to hone in on a technique a master class in 2015 on Italian “Daria is so warm and friendly, and Trust’s Joseph Sambrook Opera on me, but it took my performance to “Building a knowledge of the operatic support it offers to developing singers.” the Glover Music Trust Scholarship, was rehearsing and go through his lines that makes it possible to switch quickly Scholarship holder, Jeremy is certainly a completely new level. The cast was repertoire is an exhaustive process which he intends to use to help fund with him. He obviously loved it, though from one style to another – you have to establishing himself on the operatic made up predominantly of people in that will take many years. Having higher education in Europe. he didn’t pursue it as a career, because know your own voice incredibly well. stage. He performs regularly for their 30s who are at the top of their his parents didn’t endorse the idea of But if you’re lucky enough to be singing the opportunity to be mentored by Victorian Opera and other companies, craft, so I was really happy just to In 2014 Nicholas appeared in the his getting into what seemed a volatile professionally and regularly in the experienced vocal coaches at this stage as an oratorio soloist, and in recital. be fitting in. The show was received Hobart Baroque festival in a solo industry. But I found his passion for industry, your work will demand that of of the journey will be of enormous Commitments for Victorian Opera extremely well and I’ve had some recital, and as understudy for the role singing and acting quite contagious – it you.” value to Stefan. He is truly fortunate Learning the Art of ensemble during the remainder of 2015 include great mentions in reviews. It’s been an of Medoro in Handel’s opera Orlando. to be able to continue to do this with inspired me. Initially I wasn’t sure what Daniel holds a Bachelor of Music from singing in the ensemble for Stephen experience that will set the tone for my He has recently sung a very successful support from Melba Opera Trust.” form my desire to perform would take, the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music In May, our scholars were involved for It was also important that Melba it could be approached differently in essential for our young singers to career.” solo recital as part of the 2015 Brisbane Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s and at one time I was leaning towards In addition to his activities with Melba the first time in an ‘Art Song Workshop’: Opera Trust Artistic Advisor Sharolyn the future.The focus of this exercise develop this love of words and music Baroque festival. at the University of Melbourne. Sweeney Todd, and taking the role of Languages form a major focus of studying straight acting at NIDA or Opera Trust, Stefan remains busy with a collaboration with Australian National Kimmorley AM was free to choose was not so much on performance, alongside their operatic repertoire. Lord Valton in Bellini’s I puritani. Jeremy’s development this year, with “Singing in an international baroque WAPA, but eventually I decided to study his contemporary chamber ensemble Academy of Music (ANAM) musicians. repertoire that would suit both singer but on the development of the artistic Some of my own happiest musical a particular emphasis on German, and festival in my own country is something music at Melbourne University.” PLEXUS. With fellow members Monica Jeremy recently appeared in the While Melba Opera Trust fosters the and pianist, making creative demands relationship between singer and memories are of recitals I have played he is working with some new coaches I feel very lucky to have had the Curro (violin) and Philip Arkinstall production of Handel’s rarely- Both immensely supportive and development of Australia’s most on both equally.” pianist. We wanted them to have the with singers such as Häkan Hagegård, and teachers. In amongst this work and opportunity to do. Being surrounded (clarinet), Stefan played a concert in performed opera Faramondo in the encouraging, Daniel is aware of the promising opera singers, ANAM, With a philosophy of training singers chance to create a partnership and Sir Thomas Allen and Bryn Terfel, and his operatic performances, he gave a by such a talented and passionate late May at Deakin Edge, Federation Brisbane Baroque festival, an obviously invaluable role his parents play in his of course, trains Australia’s top to be self sufficient, an important to work through the challenges, such I hope our young musicians are as wonderful solo recital in March with group of musicians all dedicated to Square; the launch of their new three- memorable experience that he says fills journey: instrumentalists and pianists – a match objective of this workshop was also as assisting the pianist to understand fortunate as I have been.” Associate Repetiteur Stefan Cassomenos performing the beautiful music of some concert series PLEXUS SQUARED. Earlier him with confidence for his forthcoming made in heaven, we thought! Melba to instil best practice ‘ensemble’ text in a foreign language, negotiating Everyone involved found the in the home of his supporters Joe of my favourite composers created an “As a performer, you’re always in the year, he played solo recitals in Victorian Opera commitments: Opera Trust Program Coordinator Bruce preparation for the singers and to phrasing and tempo, making decisions exercise enlightening, challenging, Sambrook and Mary-Jane Gething. environment that was both inspiring questioning whether you’re good Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, “Performing in Faramondo in Brisbane Raggatt, who developed the project encourage personal responsibility for regarding who takes the lead at and ultimately very rewarding. The and a bit nerve-wracking! Thankfully, enough. The successes are one thing, as well as in Switzerland, Germany and has been one of the highlights of my “I am very grateful to receive support in conjunction with General Manager, both the preparation AND performance different moments, the singers’ need collaboration with ANAM continued the training and study made possible but you take a lot of hits too – it’s a Malta. career so far. It has also been one of through the Joseph Sambrook Opera Amy Black, describes the workshop process: to breathe, and so on. Of course the in May with a Chamber Music concert through the support of Melba Opera bit of a blood sport! Therefore it’s very the most challenging experiences. Scholarship for the second year. I think He is now looking forward to staying and the intentions behind it: aim was also to have them experience presented by a selection of Melba Trust helped prepare me for these important to have the family’s support. “The participants were encouraged to I was offered the role just 12 days that not only does Melba Opera Trust in Australia and working with the the joy from collaborating in this way.” Opera Trust and ANAM scholars at the challenges.” If I didn’t have that, I think I would find “Born of a desire to create a prepare their pieces together and make support young artists, but the funds ‘wonderfully talented singers of Melba before rehearsals were due to it a lot harder”. collaborative partnership with ANAM, it their own rehearsal arrangements. Sharolyn felt it was a unique Australian Club. Other projects on the are also being invested back into the In one of the more unique performance Opera Trust’ until his next overseas tour commence. I had to fit the five-week was decided that an ideal way to bring They then presented their art songs, opportunity for Melba scholars to work horizon include an orchestral workshop, Australian opera industry because opportunities to date, Nicholas was In this ‘tricky business’, Daniel is in October. commitment into my schedule, artists from both organisations together first in a guided rehearsal with with ‘outstanding pianists from ANAM’: providing our singers with a chance of the many wonderful mentors and invited to perform at a private event to finding the Mentor Program crucial in which meant I had to cancel some Stefan holds a Bachelor of Music was to perform art song. Each of our Sharolyn, and then in front of their “Singers are very often told what to to work intensively with conductor teachers engaged by both the Trust and celebrate John Wright-Smith’s birthday. developing skills alongside performance performances and arrange to fly (Performance) from the University participating singers was paired with a peers in a master class format with do by teachers, coaches, conductors and orchestra, whilst providing the by the scholarship recipients.” As the current recipient of the John and and stagecraft. down to Melbourne on several of Melbourne, and is a graduate of pianist from ANAM, and given two art Sharolyn and Australian soprano Merlyn and directors, and this project provided orchestra an opportunity to better Elizabeth Wright-Smith Scholarship, occasions for others. Secondly, I had to Jeremy holds a Bachelor of Music Australian National Academy of Music. songs to prepare. Art song was chosen Quaife AM. Performers were also the opportunity for them to enjoy a understand and support a vocalist. Nicholas found this experience most actually learn the role: it’s no Wotan, from the Melbourne Conservatorium He studied on scholarship at both in preference to opera arias because quizzed on how they approached the real collaborative relationship with enjoyable, made possible through our but in early rehearsals when the of Music (MCM) at the University of institutions. the piano parts are written specifically collaboration, what they learnt from it fellow musicians. There is a lifetime of Melba Artists program. Italian recitative was only just sticking, Melbourne and a Master of Music for that instrument, rather than being and were given feedback on how repertoire to explore and I believe it is we would block entire scenes in one (Opera Performance) through the piano reductions of an operatic score. go, run them from memory, and then MCM/Victorian Opera collaboration. I’d be given notes from the director

Page 8 Page 9 The Melba AUTUMN 2015 The Melba AUTUMN 2015

Sharolyn Kimmorley AM, Jade Moffat, Morgan Balfour & Nicholas Tolputt Opera in the Home… Warwick and Paulette Bisley Opera In the In May, two of our scholars, Jeremy and centre eager with anticipation. The Wright-Smith Arena… Kleeman and Zoe Drummond, were youngest, Pippa, shared that she “would invited into the home of Founding like to be an opera singer” and was Patrons, Warwick and taking particular note! What started as a small birthday gathering five years ago has now Paulette Bisley, to perform The audience were not disappointed for an intimate group of with Jeremy and Zoe, accompanied on become a highly anticipated event on the Bisley’s family and piano by Jodie Lockyer, delivering a the Melba Opera Trust calendar. friends. superb program of operatic favourites Warwick and Paulette have and some lighter repertoire for good At one of our more unusual settings – been strong supporters of measure, including the entertaining the Wright-Smith Dressage Arena in the Melba Opera Trust since ‘Green Eyed Dragon’ where Jeremy’s our inception in 2008 and knack for storytelling had everyone picturesque Yarra Valley – this annual this was a chance for us to sitting on the edge of their seats. celebration in aid of John’s birthday say ‘thank you’ in the way Afternoon tea in the sun-filled gardens continues to evolve with each passing we know best! was the perfect finale for this lovely year. While John would prefer that the Warwick & Paulette Bisley with the artists As guests gathered in afternoon and artists were able to take a a pavilion set amongst the glorious little piece of the Yarra Valley home with emphasis was on Melba Opera Trust and gardens of the Bisley’s Yarra Valley them thanks to a thoughtful gift of local its scholars, it seems others thought estate, the most excited audience produce from Paulette and Warwick. differently: members were Warwick and Paulette’s young granddaughters, sitting front row “The second time we held the event, the stage is dominated by large cream 20 or 30 friends were included tree trunks of manna gums, so this is and I insisted my birthday was not certainly a novel atmosphere in which mentioned. In the following years, the to sing!” supporting the journey – audience has grown to the 120 guests Following three years of tenor Brenton we had this year. Without my consent, Spiteri holding the John & Elizabeth Melba Opera Trust staff organised a Wright-Smith Scholarship, the absence magnificent chocolate birthday cake of a tenor in this year’s concert was with candles and ‘Happy Birthday somewhat unique! Instead, the John, from the Melba’s’ written on performance featured this year’s the top. Melba Chair, Rob Logie- new John & Elizabeth Wright-Smith Smith made a special trip to present Scholarship recipient, the highly the cake, and I was given a stirring talented counter-tenor, Nicholas rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’. It was Tolputt. Nicholas was joined by a personal approach the first time I have heard it sung so soprano Morgan Balfour and mezzo- beautifully – by opera singers!’

On several recent occasions scholars have entertained benefactors at Parlour Pleasures: an array of unique and intimate occasions. Read how our donors are Joe Sambrook and Mary-Jane Gething bringing opera into their everyday lives and enjoying the fruits of their David & Jenny Sutherland support in very personal ways… Upholding the tradition of parlour A Golden performances in their East Melbourne Affair at home, Melba Opera Trust supporters Coombe Joe Sambrook and Mary-Jane Gething welcomed an intimate party of guests A few of Roz’s In March this year retired director of Board and long-time friend of Melba to enjoy a special soiree. favourite Opera Trust, Jenny Sutherland, and her Liz & John Wright-Smith with Nicholas Tolputt Behind the scenes husband David, celebrated their 50th Recipient of the Joseph Sambrook very taken with his trio PLEXUS, things ‘golden’ wedding anniversary. Opera Scholarship in 2014 and which we now also support. I 2015, bass-baritone Jeremy thought the performance was Along with the developing talents soprano, Jade Moffat and together with Emma Matthews Jenny is the great niece of Dame Nellie Kleeman, together with the stunningly good – not surprising, of the scholars, some family talents they performed a wonderfully varied Melba and so Coombe – the Melba ENTERTAINING, Roz Zalewski & Jeremy Ruskin QC Melba’s Associate Repetiteur of course – and everyone mingled were showcased by John and program of music ranging from Bach Estate – was a natural choice of venue. ITALIAN FOOD AND with Nikki Hill We are regularly asked by our Stefan Cassomenos, delighted their afterwards over refreshments in a Elizabeth’s grandchildren, Sam and to Kurt Weill: Family and friends gathered to celebrate supporters “what does it take Mary-Jane Joscelyne, Emma Matthews audience with a varied and well- very relaxed atmosphere.” Matt Clarke, playing Bach’s Concerto “Many members of the audience MELBA OPERA TRUST & Morgan Balfour in the Yarra Valley. for Two Violins 1st Movement to received program including works Appreciative of the good fortune he were not only unfamiliar with the ARE THREE OF MELBA BOARD MEMBER AND to be an opera singer?” “After marrying, my grandfather commence proceedings, accompanied by Mozart, Schubert and Britten. has enjoyed through Joe and Mary- term ‘counter-tenor’, but had never SUPPORTER ROZ RUSKIN’S FAVOURTIE THINGS. purchased his own property in the Yarra by our own Sharolyn Kimmorley, AM. heard such a voice. The three singers The answer invariably includes privileged to take part, “welcoming Just as Dame Nellie Melba was Mary-Jane shared her enjoyment of Jane’s generosity, Jeremy found Valley. Then my father, Tom, married John enjoys the novelty of marrying were outstanding, and mixed freely patience, hard work and attention to the opportunity to meet the Joscelyne an exceptional Australian opera the event with us and was proud of the occasion to be a “fantastic and bought his own property in the the operatic talents of the scholars with the audience over afternoon Since becoming involved with Melba “Like Roz’s 2014 event, ‘Opera in the detail, not to mention musicality and community”, and to sing for her singer, so Ellis Rowan has long been the opportunity to introduce Jeremy experience”: Valley, where I spent my childhood. with the inviting surrounds of his tea following the concert. It was also and having fallen in love with opera, Pub’ at the Star Hotel in North Fitzroy, an outstanding voice! But the best absolute idol’, Emma Matthews. recognised as a wonderful botanical and Stefan to her friends: So Coombe seemed the ideal venue “Joe and Mary-Jane have been property and considers it an idyllic the first time that Melba Opera Trust Roz was delighted to bring her favourite this was a unique and rewarding way to really understand the level Morgan was joined by fellow scholars illustrator. The beautiful Ellis Rowan for our anniversary. We had drinks “We’d told our friends about our wonderfully supportive of me, venue for performance: Artistic Advisor, Sharolyn Kimmorley things together for a special birthday experience.” of preparation required is to see it in bass-baritone Jeremy Kleeman and Room at The Australian Club thus in the garden, and then lunch in the connection with Melba Opera so it was such a pleasure to give AM had accompanied the singers in celebration in May. For Roz, this birthday celebration was to action. sopranos Shauntai Batzke and Nikki provided an appropriate setting for “The singers don’t have to be saddled restaurant.” Trust, but it was all a bit academic something back and to represent the arena, and she was justifiably Second-year recipient of the Ruskin reflect her varied interests and tastes: Hill. the occasion. Mary-Jane commented until they attended this event. to their friends what they are and bridled, and their manes and In May, supporters of the Amelia To mark the occasion, guests were praised as ‘the ears’ of Melba Opera Opera Award, Nikki Hill, together with on her personal connection and It took a while to find a date, supporting! Singing in such an tails don’t need brushing and plaiting “Getting together with family and Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship Prior to the event, Melba Opera Trust treated to a special performance: Trust. Sharolyn was roundly applauded bass-baritone Daniel Carison and Stefan affection for the venue:“The singers immediately before their appearance. friends over fine wine and good food were given the ‘behind the scenes’ Founding Patron Mary-Jane Joscelyne because Jeremy and Stefan are intimate venue can be intimidating, for her vital role in the singers’ Cassomenos serenaded Roz and her are so fortunate to be able to sing in “We were able to engage Melba scholar, Furthermore, they don’t take fright is vital to my well-being, and I love opportunity to observe current was greatly looking forward to it: so busy and in demand! Stefan but I was mentally prepared well development. This was all reflected guests in the intimate setting of Pinotta so many different venues, but this soprano Nikki Hill and pianist Amir Farid when loud applause occurs. But more planning and organising events. Music ‘Amelia’ recipient, Morgan Balfour and had played a concerto the week before. It was great to perform with in the exceptionally large number of resturant in North Fitzroy. “I had never attended a master class room would have to be a highlight. to sing a brief, light program of works seriously, the structure of the arena and song add a joyful and uplifting fellow Melba scholars working hard before, there was a PLEXUS concert Stefan Cassomenos – a top musician thank-you cards, letters, emails and given by Emma Matthews, and was Early on, my husband Bill took me to by Puccini, Ivor Novello and Jerome is such that the singers have a closed Roz and her husband Jeremy continue to dimension to the pleasure I – and I trust in a master class with internationally the night after, and the day after and an amazing colleague. I was phone calls we received afterwards.” as excited as the scholars were! Past Kern for our 80-plus guests. The Melba wall behind the stage, and sing to an be very proud of Nikki and her ‘amazing my guests – get from sharing these acclaimed soprano, Emma Matthews. dinner there so it holds very special that he was off to Europe to give very happy with the way it went.” scholars have often talked about how memories for me.’ Conservatorium and now Melba Opera open air theatre, but with a high roof. Same time, same place next year talent’ and enjoy sharing Nikki’s journey things in elegant surroundings. Pinotta is recitals. Jeremy was in the middle These sentiments were echoed by For many guests this was not only they enjoyed Emma’s insight, warmth Trust have always been, and still are, According to some experts, the sound John? with their friends. one of my favourite eateries at present, Following the class, supporters, of rehearsals for Handel’s opera Stefan: their first master class experience, and laughter, which was again shown close to our hearts. For David and I, the is glorious, and of the same quality and we go there often. For me, this was scholars and masters alike all enjoyed Faramondo for Brisbane Baroque, Nikki felt especially fortunate to perform but also the first opportunity to at this event.’ day was very special.” “It was an exciting evening, and throughout the arena. The view from the perfect way to mark my birthday.’ afternoon tea to ‘de-brief’ the unique and flew down for our soirée – in the inviting surrounds of the stylish meet Morgan, the current ‘Amelia’ an honour finally to perform Blending fine music with fine art has learning experience. Melba Opera Trust was privileged to quite wonderful! We were keen to restaurant: A very warm Happy Birthday to Roz scholar. Morgan, in turn, felt especially for our wonderful patrons Joe always been a recipe for success. have been involved in celebrating this include Stefan, because we’d met from the Melba family! Sambrook and Mary-Jane Gething.” auspicious occasion and sends warm him through the Trust, and were congratulations to Jenny and David.

Page 10 Page 11 The Melba AUTUMN 2015 letters from abroad ‘twilight in the garden’: fly away brenton! melba at beleura

John and Elizabeth Wright-Smith For the fifth year in a row, Melba Opera Scholarship holder from 2012 to 2014, Trust and the Tallis Foundation presented a tenor Brenton Spiteri, has recently glittering occasion at the beautiful Beleura returned from a successful trip to Europe. House and Garden in Mornington.

In May, he sang in the Sydney valuable insight into the workings of in the First World War. I play the role The Mornington summer house of the Chamber Opera production of Elliott the opera industry in Europe while I of Ashley, Jim’s friend and fellow Tallis Family for many decades and John Gyger’s new opera Fly Away Peter, was away. It must be said that Berlin soldier; however, I also play eight other Tallis’ home from 1950, Beleura is an based on David Malouf’s novel of the itself is a city that is well worth visiting. characters throughout the piece. The exceptional place. When composer John same name. He took time out from It is fast becoming one of my favourite plus side of this is that I haven’t had to Tallis died in 1996, he left this property final rehearsals to write and update places in the world for its dynamic do any exercise for a while, as blocking to the people of Victoria, requesting it us on his recent activities, and to music and arts culture, progressive the show has kept me on my toes! become a house museum. In November 2004 his dream was realised, and share some exciting news. politics, and vast array of interesting I’m very proud to be a part of this people from all walks of life. As far as Beleura is now open to the public. 1 May 2015 production, telling this important Visitors can even walk through the opera goes, there aren’t many cities in story in an original and thought- Hi everyone, the world that boast three enormous palatial guest room where Dame Nellie provoking way. My colleagues are all herself slept when she stayed there. Kyla Allan, Daniel Carison & Morgan Balfour I’m writing this letter from Sydney, opera houses within minutes of each phenomenal. Elliot and Pierce have which is not exactly abroad, however, I other! written a beautiful opera, which the The musical evening ‘Twilight in the have just returned from a three-month Garden’ took place on two consecutive I was also fortunate enough to do production team and cast have turned effective. Having a few props seems to trip to Germany and there is a lot to nights in March. Guests enjoyed drinks a successful audition for the young into an incredibly moving piece of give the audience a bit more comfort, catch up on! artist program at National Opéra de theatre. Whilst the opera is hugely in the Palm Garden before enjoying a musical soiree in the purpose-designed and there’s a bit more happening on the The bulk of my trip was spent studying Lyon, France, while I was away. This is challenging, as well as physically and performance building, the Tallis Pavilion. stage. It was a great event.” German at a language school in Berlin. exciting news, and means that I will emotionally draining, it is well worth ‘Twilight in the Garden’ follows a All lessons took place in German and relocate to Lyon for four-five months the satisfaction that we feel after a Our philosophy of ‘once a Melba always performance given last December by my fellow students and I spoke German towards the end of 2015. I will take part successful run. a Melba’ was illustrated with the return 2014 recipient of the Beleura-Tallis Opera together outside class. Studying a in training and mentoring sessions as of alumna Kyla Allan who travelled from Once this show finishes, I will be Scholarship, Matthew Reardon. Matthew foreign language for four hours a day, part of the program, and will perform Sydney to join scholars Daniel Carison back in Melbourne rehearsing and has just been announced as this years Monday to Friday, was an intense in one of the company’s operas in the and Morgan Balfour in performance, performing in The Barber of Seville recipient of the Australian International experience. Luckily, I already speak 2015/16 season. accompanied on piano by Amir Farid. with Melbourne Opera Company, in Opera Award and will be relocating to French reasonably well, so the rules As I write this, I am just about to amongst a number of concerts, before As the current recipient of the Beleura- Wales later in the year to study with of learning a European language were head into production week for Sydney I head back to Europe at the start of Tallis Opera Scholarship, Daniel Carison renowned tenor Dennis O’Neill, at the clear to me. I made quite a lot of Chamber Opera’s world premiere September. I’ve loved my time away particularly appreciated the opportunity Wales International Academy of Voice. progress because of this, although my production of Fly Away Peter, after but I am looking forward to being to visit Beleura. Bravo, Matthew! German is by no means perfect. It was the novel by David Malouf. The opera back amongst family and friends for a “Given the connection with Melba Opera ultimately an amazing experience, and version has been written by Melbourne month or two. Melba Opera Trust remains grateful to Trust, it was nice to walk through the one that has given me a new and very composer Elliott Gyger, with a libretto the Tallis Foundation for providing the Much love, performing space and see Melba’s piano useful skill. by Pierce Wilcox. It tells the story of a annual Beleura-Tallis Opera Scholarship Brenton placed in the corner – that really set the young Australian birdwatcher named in the Melba Opera Trust program. From a singing perspective, I worked tone for the performance. We had quite Jim Saddler, who enlists as a soldier with several coaches and gained some minimal staging, but I think it was very

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FOUNDING PATRONS David Jones The Hon Alex Chernov AC QC David & Jane Martin PHILANTHROPIC PARTNERS Mary-Jane Joscelyne Robert G & Sue Logie-Smith, Mrs Elizabeth Chernov John McArdle QC The late Pamela, Lady Vestey Tom & Ruth O’Dea Janet & John Clark AM Denys & Ingeborg McCullough HONOURARY PATRONS Lady Southey AC Sandy Clark & Marie McDonald Ian McDonald The Hon. Saffron Foster Jillian Cobcroft Ann & Ian McFarling MAESTRO CIRCLE ($5,000—$9,999) Ann & Russell Cole Mrs Patricia McKenzie MELBA BOARD Jim Allen OAM & Judy Allen Margaret & Kevin Collecut Ross McPherson Robert G Logie-Smith, Chair John Bate OAM & Liz Bate Jim Cousins AO & Libby Cousins Debora & Dr Bryan Mendelson Roz Ruskin, Deputy Chair James & Judith Beattie Michael J Crouch AO & Shanny Crouch Fiona Menzies Dmitry Danilovich, Treasurer Dr Dianne & Lino Bresciani Rosie & Dr Peter Cunningham James Mighell SC Ross Elliott Peter & Jan Clark Joan Darling Margaret & Patrick Mills Peter Reilly Stephanie Exton Arthur Day AM & Hilary Day Susan Morgan Peter Garnick, Managing Director Dr Helen Ferguson Jane Douglass AM Diane & Tim Morris Catherine Freeman Ros & John Dowling Dr Kenneth Muirden AO & Lesley Muirden IMPRESARIO ($500,000 and above) Nance Grant AM MBE & Ian Harris Linda & Terry Elliott Margaret Nevett John & Elizabeth Wright-Smith The Hon Peter Heerey AM QC & Sally Heerey Vivien & Jack Fajgenbaum Geoffrey Norris Gill & Giles Hunt Dr Frank & Mrs Firkin Stephen O’Meara & Kate Galvin PATRONS ($250,000—$499,999) Mary-Jane Joscelyne William J Forrest AM Graeme Parncutt Joseph Sambrook & Mary Jane Gething John Kiely Fleur Gibbs Sarah Patterson • Opus 50 Charitable Trust Dr Peter A Kingsbury John & Jo Grigg Clare & David Pullar GRAND CIRCLE ($100,000—$249,999) • Tallis Foundation Elizabeth Lithgow Elizabeth Guinness Tony & Elizabeth Rayward • Cochrane Schofield Fund Warwick & Paulette Bisley Dr Jack & Rosie McLeish Dr Anne Hamilton Peter Reilly & Linton Soderholm Diana Gibson AO • Gwenda & John Lloyd Memorial Mary-Ruth & Peter McLennan Margaret & Trevor Holborow Elizabeth & Tom Romanowski Scholarship Fund Roz & Jeremy Ruskin QC The Hon Justice John & Judith Middleton Dr Sam & Margaret Howes Margaret S Ross AM Lady Potter AC DLJ Chrissie Hughes Mr Nick Ruskin & Ms Annette Shiell DRESS CIRCLE ($50,000—$99,999) PROFESSIONAL PARTNERS The late Nancy Peterson & daughter Darvell Hutchinson AM Aubrey Schrader Anne & Peter Laver AM Dale Johnson Phillip D Isaacs OAM & Susie Gibbons Sue & Phillip Schudmak Michael Robinson AO & Judith Robinson Barry & Prue Johnson GALLERY CIRCLE ($25,000—$49,999) Lyndal & David Scott Graham Sellars-Jones Lewis & Paula Johnson Charles Allen AO & Jocelyn Allen Smedley Family Richard Stanley QC & Sue Stanley William MP Jones John E Smith EVENTS PARTNER Janet Calvert-Jones AO & John Calvert-Jones Jennifer & David Sutherland AM Anne & Milan Kantor Russell & Margaret Smith Dr Michael Troy Joe Diflo Bryan Keon-Cohen AM QC & June Keon-Cohen Hugh & Elizabeth Taylor Prof Mel & Nina Waters Louise Gourlay OAM Judge Kathryn Kings Dr George Tippett Michael Wheelahan SC & Cathryn Wheelahan The late Lady April Hamer OAM Anthony Knight OAM & Beverly Knight Helen Woods & Lewis Rowell ACCOMMODATION PARTNER Caroline Williams Peter Hansen OAM & Neroli Hansen Joy Laurence Barbara Yeoh Paul Worthington Andrew & Tracey Sisson Barbara Lewis John & Erin Lidgerwood FRIENDS CIRCLE ($1—$999) MELBA CIRCLE ($1,000—$4,999) BALCONY CIRCLE ($10,000—$24,999) Julie & Athol Lidgett The Melba Opera Trust also appreciates the Dr Patricia Armstrong-Grant OBE Betty Amsden OAM Janet Limb generosity of our Friends Circle of which The Hon Justice David Beach & Marea Beach there are over 200 supporters Nola & Ernest Dawes OBE Dianne & Dr Bruce Livett Judy & Michael Begg Rose Downer & John Downer AM Colin Lovitt QC Marc Besen AO & Eva Besen AO MELBA’S WILL BEQUEST CIRCLE Peter Griffin AM & Terry Swann Noreen Maher Prof Henry & Jenny Burger Dr Patricia Armstrong Grant OBE Hans & Petra Henkell Peter Mander & Walter van Nieuwkuyk The Hon Justice David Byrne & Jenni Harris Michael Bertram Ian & Dale Johnson Suzanne Maple-Brown Adrienne & Ross Cameron Mary Ryllis-Clark

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