Is it too late to pursue an opera singing career at 31?

The question of whether someone is 'too old' to begin an opera singing career can be daunting, especially if you're considering starting at 31. While many people might believe that thirty is 'old' to begin a career, the truth is that it's entirely possible, albeit with considerable challenges. This article will explore the realities of pursuing an opera singing career at 31, the necessary skills, and the obstacles you might face.

Necessary Skills and Considerations

To succeed in the opera world, you need more than just a beautiful voice. A multitude of skills and traits are required, making the journey both demanding and challenging. Here are the key aspects you must consider:

Excellent Musical Skills

Opera is a highly musical field, requiring a deep understanding of harmony, melodic structure, and orchestration. You need to honed your aural skills and be able to pick up complex musical phrases quickly.

Language Proficiency

Becoming fluent in several languages is essential, particularly if you're aiming for a career in a major opera house. You will need to be proficient in French, Italian, and German. Pronunciation must be precise, and you'll need to have a strong understanding of the nuances of each language to convey the emotion and meaning of the text accurately.

Acting and Dancing

Opera is not just about singing; it's also about storytelling and acting. Actors must communicate the characters' emotional and psychological states to the audience, often through complex and demanding roles. Additionally, dancing is beneficial, especially for roles that require stage movement. Men often need to be proficient in stage sword fighting for specific roles.

Physical Appearance and Stage Presence

Appearance plays a crucial role in the opera world. Looking like your voice type is beneficial, as it can enhance the character you're portraying. Companies have become increasingly selective about who they hire, and looking 'buff' or having a muscular physique can be advantageous. However, it's important to note that physical appearance is not the only factor; talent and vocal technique are the primary considerations.

Health and Lifestyle

To be successful, opera singers need to maintain excellent physical and vocal health. The job requires extensive travel, often 10-11 months a year, and involves performing in various climates and environments. This lifestyle is not suitable for everyone, and it can be physically and emotionally demanding.

Apprenticeships and Stage Experience

One of the most crucial steps in building a career in opera is gaining stage experience through apprenticeships. Being an apprentice in a major opera house provides invaluable experience and exposure. Fellowships or apprenticeships can help you gain experience, even if the pay is not the best. Two or three summer apprenticeships are particularly helpful, especially those programs reviewed by Opera News.

Obstacles and Challenges

The music and the people in the opera world are indeed wonderful, but the business itself is notorious for being harsh. Many opera companies now focus on hiring 'young' artists, with the cutoff often being around 33 for men and even younger for women. While lying about your age might seem like an option, it can be risky and risky, and if you want to enter prestigious competitions or be recommended by reputable agents, maintain honesty is the best policy.

Additionally, the costs associated with entering the opera world can be substantial. By the time you're ready to make a career, you might be 33 or older. At this age, you've likely settled into a stable lifestyle, and the idea of traveling extensively and not having a home base can be daunting. Moreover, financial stability is a primary concern, and the entry-level roles in opera often lack the financial security and stability that many seek.

European Opportunities

While it's challenging to make a career in major American opera houses by 31, there are still opportunities in Europe. European companies often have more flexibility with older singers and can offer better career paths. A Fest contract with a single opera house can provide a more stable environment, and securing roles with the local opera company can help you gain valuable experience and exposure.

In Europe, you'll still need to be fluent in the language of the country, and the best chances for work are in Germany and Austria. With the right preparation and networking, you can still make a successful career as an opera singer.

Conclusion

While starting an opera singing career at 31 can be challenging, it is not impossible. The key is to have a solid plan, a robust network, and the willingness to be patient. It's important, however, to carefully consider your motivations and the realities of the profession before making a decision. If you truly believe in your passion and are willing to work hard, pursuing an opera singing career can still be a fulfilling path.

Whatever decision you make, I wish you the best of luck in your career journey.