Do the Work: the Art and Soul of Craft

We think it should come easily. If we have a talent or gift, somewhere along the way, we become convinced that that, in and of itself, is enough. We think that wanting to write is the same thing as the act itself. Somewhere we forget how the craft and the art are swallowed up by… Continue reading Do the Work: the Art and Soul of Craft

Chanteuse: What the fach?

            Fach. Contrary to how this four-letter word looks and sounds, it is not a curse (albeit some opera singers might feel otherwise). Literally, it is the German word for “compartment” or “shelf,” and it is how singers’ voice ranges and types get classified – think Bass, Tenor, Alto, Soprano.… Continue reading Chanteuse: What the fach?

5 Tips for Hosting an Art Salon

1. Send out invitations to art creators and appreciators. I got introduced to the wonderful thing that is pingg earlier this year, but of course there is always evite or cocodot among other online invitations to email. Then again, if you have time, there is something so delicious about opening the mailbox and finding a… Continue reading 5 Tips for Hosting an Art Salon

Chanteuse: Overture

I’m excited to share the first guest blog post with you! Katy and I met in college when she first began studying voice and from there, I had a front row seat to watch her opera career start and grow as well as listen to her voice expand in range and volume over the years.… Continue reading Chanteuse: Overture

The Ring of the Nibelung at San Francisco Opera- Part 2

Snacks. I bet you’re not completely surprised that I’m starting here. This is an important topic when thinking about attending the opera. I must admit I was sad when my old go-to for opera intermission fare, Citizen Cake, moved to Fillmore Street many moons ago. Do not despair, but do think about snacks. A few… Continue reading The Ring of the Nibelung at San Francisco Opera- Part 2

The Ring of the Nibelung at San Francisco Opera- Part 1

Opera. Before you roll your eyes or yawn, I want to ask you a few questions. Does a good drama make you cling to the edge of your seat in anticipation of what’s going to happen next? How about love stories- do you find yourself getting caught up emotionally in the outcome of what happens… Continue reading The Ring of the Nibelung at San Francisco Opera- Part 1

Losing My Voice

Grief does weird things to a person. You don’t exactly know the when or the where, but you know to take this visitor at its word, when it says it will drop by. Right after my dad’s funeral, people kindly sent emails, texts and phone calls. In the void and silence not to be filled,… Continue reading Losing My Voice

Coloring Book: February

My gift to my favorite 2-year old Dadi this year is a coloring book with a page released on the blog each month for his mama to download and print so he can color his way into the things that make up 2011. No one’s looking- you can print it out too even if it’s… Continue reading Coloring Book: February