Defining Success in an Ultra-competitive Field

With audition season in full swing, I’ve been reflecting a lot lately about my own career expectations and the messages the industry sends to young singers. As singers, do we praise one path to stardom? I’ll go to this school, do this young artist program then this competition and, “Tah-dah!!! Momma, I made it!”……. It could all be so simple…….

As time goes on I’m seeing that success comes in many forms. How one defines success depends on how it’s being measured. This measure of success is greatly dictated by the approach and perspective one has towards performance. As artists, we must ask the question, why is singing significant to us? Are we singing to be seen, to impress, to validate loved ones, restore self-confidence, or even because someone said we’re good at it?! OR, is it deeper than that?!

To know were you’re going you must first clarify “why?”

I sing because it’s a time to be unapologetically honest and communicate a sense of vulnerability with others. Sharing that in performance gives audiences the permission to also affirm the truth within their own story and voice. In our culture people are always putting on masks based on social or even personal expectations. It’s impossible to sing well while also wearing the mask. True singing, aside from the pomp and circumstance, confronts our human nature and I love that. I love that singing is not really tangible and that it impacts people in beautiful ways that can’t seen, but felt. It’s very much a field that gets to the heart of the matter and for an emotional person like myself, I dig it.

If this is the “why”, then approaching success becomes a question of, “Where can I best achieve these sentiments?” It’s important to realize is that there are multiple right answers to the “where” question. For some it means entering the world of academia. For others, it means performing on Broadway or small community theatres. Many people wish to have families while performing and freelancing. Some singers do YAP’s or even go abroad to find work.

For others, it means starting a non-profit or being an arts administrator. Lots of performers take gap years to clarify their purpose and or save money for future opportunity. Hard work and dedication are essential, but beyond these elements, there is no one way to “make it.” If we stay honest about the hopes and desires in our hearts, the “why” will collide with the “where.” I think it’s just a matter of staying open minded as our stories unfold. (I know…. easier said than done lol).

My grandma recently told me that overnight success is rare and that even if it happens, it puts one at a disadvantage from a development standpoint. In some ways, she was glad that I am getting to experience the early challenges that come with the opera industry. She said, “When you encounter varying opinions, funny attitudes and difficult people you’ll be able to recognize it and see clearly when faced with similar situations in the future.” Some lessons (both in vocal technique and professional etiquette) must be gleaned from experiences in step one to prepare us for the future we’re working towards. Learning how to adjust or cope when faced with career frustrations and rejection is paramount. This reinforces the concept that success is not one fixed point of arrival, but a journey of both hills and valleys.

In this current season of career development I’m constantly reminding myself that in the field of opera:

“It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”

All of us, no matter how far we’ve come are constantly evolving and becoming the best versions of ourselves. Success is not static and neither should we treat it as such. With this in mind, embrace the process, stay in the practice room and rest your heart because all things do truly work together for our good.