I am happy to share that I have received live auditions at all the of schools I applied to this year. This is an improvement from last year and I think that the hard work and fantastic voice lessons is paying off!
I am now at the critical, nail biting stage of pre-audition. Most people may think it's between the audition and the results, but there is not a thing I can do once my audition is over--it's already been decided for me. The task ahead is to master the parts of the audition that are in my control.
The good news is that there is life outside of academia, and I am determined to be successful whether or not I have a master's degree behind me. This being said, there are certainly valuable experiences to be gained attending a master's program, and that is my goal for next year.
Another nice thing--I'm covering Giulietta with New York Lyric Opera Theater. This works out well for me, as the performance is in three weeks and I'm in the middle of traveling for grad school and preparing auditions. I get to learn the role without having to sing it for five hours a day, and I will perform a few arias in a concert at Symphony Space on W 96th Street, the morning after my audition at New England Conservatory.
These past few months are proof--or least evidence--that perseverance pays off! (I'll say "proof" when or if I actually get into grad school.) This is my third time applying for grad school! I am determined to go to one of the best schools in the country, and hopefully I'll start next September in such a school. It has been emotional, difficult, and expensive, to say the least, but it is all worth it. I can't wait to sing!
One piece of proof of the results of perseverance: one of the conductors for NYLOT came into rehearsal as we were finishing up. I recognized him from my auditions, but seeing as they hear hundreds of people each year, I didn't think he would recognize me. "Hello! Oh, Miss Bird! So good to see you!" (I thought I was in trouble, but asked if he remembered me.) "Of course I do! You auditioned for us twice and I played for both of them! I see you're covering Giulietta. That's fantastic. Let's talk soon."
Yes, I auditioned for them twice, even when they told me I didn't have to, but I know it was the second audition that made the difference. It was definitely worth two audition fees.
Perhaps I'm not at the stage where I can succeed on the first try, but who ever is? I'm willing to pay my dues.
