Is It Too Late to Become an Opera Singer at 15?

As a chorist experiencing thorough vocal education since the age of six, you are certainly on the right path. However, at 15, you may be wondering if you are in the right place or too early to consider a career as an opera singer. The short answer is neither – you are not too late, and you are not too early. Let's delve deeper into this topic to understand the key factors involved.

Understanding Voice Maturity

Earl Hazell, a seasoned voice professional, points out that there is no strict time frame for becoming an opera singer. At 15, you are still in the post-puberty stage, during which your vocal cords are yet to fully mature. Voice teacher Richard Miller suggests that the process can take anywhere from the 20s to the early 40s. The depth and tone of your voice play a critical role in determining its maturity. Coloraturas or sopranos often mature in their mid-20s, while tenors can expect their prime in their late 20s or early 30s.[1]

Even Maria Callas, a legendary soprano, made her professional debut at 18, illustrating that the process of vocal maturity can be far more flexible than many might assume. This means that you are definitively not too late to enter the field of opera singing. Your journey is still nascent and full of potential.

Shaping the Perfect Environment for Your Voice

While choral singing remains an essential part of your journey, the educational environment and the quality of the vocal teachers you encounter are crucial. Choral directors can often range from being very good to potentially harmful, depending on their expertise and experience. Early vocal training is indeed valuable, but it must be done by highly skilled professionals who understand the nuances of a developing voice. At your current age, it is more important to establish a solid musical foundation and lay the groundwork for future vocal training.

Two Pervasive Misunderstandings

Misunderstanding of Musical Theatre

One of the primary misconceptions is the idea that starting vocal training when you are still a young child will give you an advantage in musical theatre and, by extension, opera. This belief is perpetuated by the widespread popularity of roles like Annie, Billy Elliot, or Sarafina in musical theatre, which often involve children. Musicals are designed primarily to showcase the talent and ability of the young performers, but they also reflect a superficial understanding of the demanding and complex nature of opera.

Opera requires a more sophisticated level of vocal training and artistic development. It involves a deeper understanding of musical interpretation and vocal athleticism, alongside excellent acting skills. Good singing should be the result of a combination of vocal technique, acting, and physical expression, all developed over a period extending from late teens to early twenties.[2]

The Fictional Phenomenon of the Child Opera Singer

The other significant misconception is the so-called "child opera singer." This term is misleading and often used to refer to performers like Jackie Evancho, who garnered considerable acclaim and success at a young age. However, true opera singing demands a level of maturity and vocal precision that simply cannot be achieved by a child. Singing opera incorrectly is not the same as performing it authentically. Thus, there is no such thing as a child opera singer; the closest you can get are some highly polished performances by young talents who have received extensive training.[3]

Building a Strong Foundation

Given these insights, here are the steps you should consider as you embark on your journey to become an opera singer:

Become a Musically Skilled Individual: Focus on laying a solid musical foundation through vocal practice, technique, and theory. Develop Collaborative Skills: Engage in activities like sports and team-based projects to build teamwork and leadership skills. Cultivate a Well-Rounded Personality: Read extensively and explore different forms of art and culture to develop a broad perspective and emotional depth. Move On to College: As your voice matures, you can then seek out professional vocal training in a reputable conservatory or music school.

Remember, the path to becoming an opera singer is not a linear one. It involves patience, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt. By taking these steps and continuing your vocal education, you can maximize your potential and fulfill your aspirations in the world of opera.