Sunday, August 31, 2008

Opera Karaoke: Thinking outside the box!

OPERA KARAOKE???
Seriously?
YES! --- It's true!

So... I was invited to sing at a local church, 
however I did not have time to connect with the pianist ahead of time!
I was slightly concerned because I was planning on singing
Puccini's "Donde Lieta," from the third act of La Boheme.
I had no idea if the church pianist was familiar with opera 
or with Puccini and we couldn't meet until 30 minutes before the service.

So, I began to brainstorm about how to make this work.
I was then asked - 
"Is there such a thing as karaoke for opera?"
I laughed and figured no - 
AND that even of there was, it probably wouldn't be any good.

Ma! (But!)  I was wrong!

Through an internet search, I found several options for 
Opera Karaoke or "Opera Minus Voices."
I found both piano and orchestral accompaniments.
Within just 5 minutes time I found an acceptable orchestral accompaniment
not only of "Donde Lieta," but several other well-known arias.

For less than a buck, I purchased this track and I was on my way!
So, after uploading this to my iPod, 
I grabbed my friend's iPod Sound Dock 
and pressed play!

I was so surprised to hear this beautiful orchestral sound 
bellowing forth from such small speakers!
I began to sing and knew all was golden!

Today I showed up, technology in hand, and sang!
The balance was perfect and while the tempo of the accompaniment
was a little faster than what I would prefer,
it worked out GREAT!

Now I know that I can sing anywhere!