American Opera Projects: "You're seeing the opera in microcosm."

Interview

"You hear the work, and you hear the audience hearing the work. That's invaluable. As a theater critic, I am by nature self-critical. As an editor, I know the work can always be better. I want to see how the audience reacts. I want to hear their thoughts afterward. You won't take every suggestion to heart, but one good note can have a huge effect on the final outcome."

Don't miss: Bandits in the Valley

Interview

"It is fascinating that the average Torontonian's understanding of Toronto's history is pretty limited," says Tapestry Artistic Director Michael Mori. "We are all a pretty new lot here, and so stories about the bandits in the Don Valley in the late 1800s and far-reaching industrial innovations that came from people like George Taylor are news to everyone except historians."

Talking with singers: Alfred Walker

Interview

"Singing is my most effective way of expressing thoughts and feelings. It's very gratifying to show the audience who you are. To show them real expression. Some artists have an instrument, some have pen and paper. I have a voice!"

Talking with singers: Lisette Oropesa

Interview

"Ever since I was young I have been singing, and I can't remember a time when music was not a part of my life. I truly feel that this is what I've been put on this earth to do; namely, to share something divine through the gift of music. If I can move even a single person, I know that I have done justice to the gift that has been given to me."

Justin Ralph: "It all comes down to storytelling."

Interview

"Whether you're singing opera, art song, folk music, or even country, you're unfolding a story for the audience and transporting them to a different time and place than the present. Schubert's traveller in Winterreise and Hank Williams' lonesome soul in 'Lost Highway' have a lot in common despite the centuries between them, and immersing myself in either character brings me a lot of satisfaction."

The voice teacher series: Edith Wiens

Interview

"'Good singing' is when I hear someone who is passionate in communication, who has something to say, and is true to him- or herself. It is excellent singing when this is coupled with technical ease."

The voice teacher series: Mitchell Hutchings

Interview

"It may sound cliché, but, even if a student has a natural talent, the best results come from a healthy work ethic. You can see this at various schools, conservatories, and independent voice studios everywhere. Those that are the most motivated and have the greatest amount of perseverance gain the most from this career."

Talking with composers: Adam Scime

Interview

"I like to try something different with each piece I write. It's how I keep the process exciting and at the same time it becomes a learning experience. It also keeps me on edge - which I like - and for me this is actually a positive thing."

Spotlight on: Jacques Arsenault

Interview

"Invest in relationships. There are some remarkable individuals working in every aspect of this industry. Be the person others want to be around and work with—make yourself indispensable. Also, be super prepared. When luck comes your way, it's useless if you're not ready for it."

Talking with singers: Annalisa Stroppa

Interview

"I am happy despite all the difficulties because I travel for a profession I adore and gives me a lot of satisfaction, and this is priceless. My passion and the enthusiasm together with family's support is what gives me the strength and the serenity to deal with all the hurdles. Being away from your family and the consequent impossibility to cultivate one's family, friends and sentimental relationship is the price to pay but I am convinced that those who love you support you and their presence is felt even when you are far away."