Frasquita in Bizet’s Carmen
[/et_pb_slide] [/et_pb_slider][et_pb_testimonial admin_label=”Testimonial” author=”Catherine Dupressoir” url_new_window=”off” quote_icon=”on” use_background_color=”on” background_color=”rgba(244,171,171,0.83)” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” quote_icon_color=”#e02b20″ body_text_color=”#000000″ border_style=”solid” body_font_size=”20″ body_font=”Lobster||||” _builder_version=”3.0.51″ quote_icon_background_color=”#f5f5f5″]“Because opera combines so many elements – dance, music, drama, poetry – the learning process is never ending and I love the challenge.”
[/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” border_style=”solid” _builder_version=”3.0.51″]Where are you from? How did you first get interested in opera or musical theatre?
I was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec. It was during my Undergraduate Degree at McGill that I really dove into the genre of opera. I started studying opera scores and watching them on video for the first time for various classes. I was so captivated by its complexity, beauty, and ability to move me so deeply. Because opera combines so many elements – dance, music, drama, poetry – the learning process is never ending and I love the challenge.
My family has always encouraged me, driving me to countless rehearsals and lessons as a young girl and always trying to attend as many concerts, masterclasses, and competitions as they can! Throughout this entire journey, even when my path was unclear, they have always been on my side!
When did you start studying voice? Where are you studying now?
I started piano lessons when I was 7 years old and joined a children’s choir, the EMSB Choir, at the age of 9 for eight years. The next year, I began private voice lessons, and eventually was fortunate enough to have private classical voice lessons through my High School Music Program. After High School, I completed my Diploma of College Studies at Vanier College in Classical Voice. At the end of May, I will be graduating from my Undergraduate Degree at McGill University in Voice Performance and starting my Master’s Degree at Western University in the Fall!
What came first for you, theatre or music?
The music definitely came first, as I have been singing as long as I can remember. My earliest memory was singing in St Patrick’s Basilica’s Christmas play when I was around 5 years old!
What are your dream roles?
One day, I would love to perform my favourite Verdi sopranos: Violetta, Aida, Gilda, and Leonora. I am also spellbound by Tosca and Liù, from Verdi’s Turandot. Of course, I have a lot to learn until then and I look forward to every role I study in the future. When it comes to opera, I am mesmerized by it all!
Who are your favourite performing artists?
I am a huge admirer of Kristine Opolais, Sonya Yoncheva, and Vittorio Grigolo. I have the pleasure of watching these artists at the Live in HD transmissions from the Met! I also listen to older artists such as Victoria de Los Angeles, Renata Tebaldi, Monserrat Caballé, Leontyne Price, Beniamino Gigli, and Jussi Björling.
What are you most looking forward to about this summer?
I am definitely looking forward to studying and performing my first opera role! I look forward to working with the director and getting to know my new colleagues. Since my mother was born in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, I will be able to see my grandparents and relatives, who I seldom see. I can’t wait for them to assist the performances and share my love of opera with them.
Thanks, Catherine!
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