This entry, I would like to focus on Mr. Benson's lecture, who is a manager for CAMI. He has a vast amount of knowledge that could pertain to everything in the opera world and it was fantastic to have the chance to talk with him! There were so many topics that he discussed, and so fluidly, that it will be difficult to pull out just a couple. Basically, when he's looking at young artists, he looks for individuality of the singer - the one who is really communicating the piece. He said that the arias that you present not only have to fit your voice, but also your personality. I've never heard it described that way. It's usually the aria/role that your voice fits at this stage of your life, never really focusing on the personality of the singer. But I suppose that makes sense because if it is something you do not enjoy singing then you will not concentrate the same energy into the piece. And it is your individuality that will make you successful in this field.
He also was emphasizing the importance of just keeping your name in front of managers and the people you audition for. It keeps them thinking of you on an unobtrusive level. But he also recommended to be pleasantly persistent when contacting people, and not to be too shy. Another way he said could help is to just be visible in the neighborhoods and around the shows. There have been a couple stories of people getting jobs while just being at a show or coffee shop at the right time. Caroline Worra also mentioned this.
Another major topic he discussed was how to make yourself marketable. Basically, don't limit yourself to just opera, or just musical theatre. If you include concert work (oratorios, requiems, etc.) and recital rep (art songs), then you will make it easier for both yourself or your manager to get you job bookings. He made an emphasis to say that this is a business of opinions, and you will not be able to please everyone.
A good lesson you gather from Ken Benson, and reiterated by others, is that you really have to know who you are and be true to yourself. You must develop thick skin, but know how to take things in stride. You cannot please everyone. This is a hard business, but you have to pick and choose your "battles".
~Leisa Sunier
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