Speaking Soundly: Joyce DiDonato Live at Lincoln Center
Episode Release Date: June 4, 2024
Host: David Krause, Principal Trumpet of the Metropolitan Opera
Guest: Joyce DiDonato, Three-Time Grammy Award-Winning American Mezzo-Soprano
Recorded: Lincoln Center, New York City, April 2024
Produced by: Artful Narratives Media
Introduction to Joyce DiDonato
The episode opens with host David Krause introducing Joyce DiDonato, highlighting her global acclaim as a mezzo-soprano known for her enchanting voice and transformative stage presence. Joyce shares her early love for singing in a choir, emphasizing the importance of each voice contributing to a harmonious whole.
Joyce DiDonato [00:49]: "Every voice in that choir is invaluable, but they all need each other to make it work. It's the perfect blueprint for me about how to go into the world. It's like everybody has their purpose and their own voice, but together you can make harmony."
The Thrill of Live Performances
David delves into the exhilarating experience of receiving thunderous applause at prestigious venues like the Met Opera. Joyce discusses the initial anxiety performers often feel before a performance, juxtaposed with the profound joy of audience appreciation.
Joyce DiDonato [03:31]: "When that kind of applause comes, it's deeply gratifying."
She contrasts different audience reactions, noting that some discerning venues, such as Teatro Colon in Buenos Aires, demand excellence without automatically bestowing applause, thereby making genuine appreciation even more rewarding.
Balancing Stage Persona with Personal Identity
The conversation shifts to Joyce’s humble beginnings in Prairie Village, Kansas, juxtaposed with her larger-than-life stage presence. Joyce affirms that her small-town roots remain integral to her identity, instilling values of hard work and community.
Joyce DiDonato [07:25]: "I think it's always a part of me. But I'll put on your Long Island accent. All right, David. I'll do that."
David relates by sharing his own journey from Kansas to Lincoln Center, fostering a connection over their shared Midwestern upbringing.
Family and Musical Influences
Joyce provides an intimate look into her large Irish Catholic family, where music was a staple. She recounts her family's diverse musical tastes, from classical to rock, shaping her versatile musical foundation.
Joyce DiDonato [10:04]: "I was exposed to all different kinds of music and it was. I feel like it was my first language."
The Joy of Choir and Community Projects
Reflecting on her choir days, Joyce expresses a longing to recreate that collective harmony in her solo career. She details her ambitious "Eden" project, which unites children's choirs from various backgrounds to promote sustainability and cooperation.
Joyce DiDonato [11:27]: "It's that sensation of every voice in that choir is invaluable. But they all need each other to make it work."
She shares a poignant story from ancient Olympia, Greece, where diverse children collaborated through music, embodying the Olympic ideals of cooperation and respect.
Transitioning from Education to Opera
David probes into Joyce's shift from aspiring choir director to pursuing a career in opera. Joyce candidly discusses the internal conflict between her desire to teach and her burgeoning passion for performing on stage.
Joyce DiDonato [17:08]: "I think I should be a teacher because there's such a need. But I really love to be on stage. So that must be bad."
Her father's supportive words encouraged her to embrace multiple avenues of artistic expression, ultimately guiding her toward a successful opera career.
Challenges and Resilience in Training
Joyce recounts her rigorous training at the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia, where she faced rejection and worked multiple jobs to support herself. Her determination and resilience during these formative years were pivotal in honing her craft.
Joyce DiDonato [23:26]: "I didn't have time. I... I had a church job. So I went out to Lansing, Pennsylvania..."
She emphasizes the importance of personal initiative and consistent practice, which helped her overcome feelings of inadequacy and emerge stronger as an artist.
Breakthrough Moments and Professional Growth
A significant turning point in Joyce's career occurred during a Houston Grand Opera’s Young Artist Program concert, where a breakthrough performance shattered her technical limitations and solidified her confidence.
Joyce DiDonato [27:47]: "I was baby stepping the whole time. And there wasn't... I never considered there a big break, but there was a shift in my mind that is very concrete for me."
This moment of transformation allowed Joyce to fully embrace her artistry, leading to her eventual success on international stages.
Navigating the Audition Landscape
Joyce shares her daunting audition experiences, particularly her journey through the Operalia competition. Her persistence paid off when a London agent recognized her potential, leading to an intensive audition tour across Europe.
Joyce DiDonato [31:07]: "I did 13 cities in 16 days... I got 12 immediate rejections... But my last audition was the only A-level house that I sang for, and it was Paris Opera..."
Her portrayal of Kate Pinkerton in multiple productions caught the attention of influential figures, culminating in her pivotal role in "The Barber of Seville" at the Paris Opera.
Met Opera Debut and Personal Triumph
David highlights Joyce's memorable Met Opera debut, underscored by the emotional presence of her late father. Joyce reflects on the profound impact of sharing such a significant moment with her family.
Joyce DiDonato [35:09]: "He looked at me and he goes, so you're really doing this? And it was... he was able to experience that and have that realization along with me."
This heartfelt experience underscores the deep personal connections intertwined with her professional achievements.
Coping with Loss Through Performance
The conversation takes a poignant turn as Joyce discusses the sudden loss of her father during a demanding period of her career. She describes the tumultuous emotional landscape she navigated while performing, illustrating the therapeutic and cathartic power of music.
Joyce DiDonato [37:19]: "In that case, I just found my father, and now I've lost him again... I realized with time later that... moving things through me that I wasn't remotely prepared to process..."
The Mystical Connection of Performance
Both Joyce and David resonate over the indescribable connection performers feel during a performance—a transient yet lasting impact that binds artists and audiences alike.
Joyce DiDonato [39:00]: "It's that mystical thing that happens where you go out of time and space and there's a connection that is quite visceral."
Closing Reflections
As the episode draws to a close, David expresses profound admiration for Joyce’s artistry and the depth of her experiences. Joyce reciprocates the gratitude, highlighting the honor of sharing her journey with listeners.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Joyce DiDonato [00:49]: "Every voice in that choir is invaluable, but they all need each other to make it work..."
- Joyce DiDonato [03:31]: "When that kind of applause comes, it's deeply gratifying."
- Joyce DiDonato [07:25]: "I think it's always a part of me. But I'll put on your Long Island accent. All right, David."
- Joyce DiDonato [10:04]: "I was exposed to all different kinds of music and it was. I feel like it was my first language."
- Joyce DiDonato [11:27]: "It's that sensation of every voice in that choir is invaluable..."
- Joyce DiDonato [17:08]: "I think I should be a teacher because there's such a need. But I really love to be on stage."
- Joyce DiDonato [23:26]: "I didn't have time. I... I had a church job."
- Joyce DiDonato [27:47]: "I was baby stepping the whole time. And there wasn't..."
- Joyce DiDonato [31:07]: "I did 13 cities in 16 days... I got 12 immediate rejections..."
- Joyce DiDonato [35:09]: "He looked at me and he goes, so you're really doing this?"
- Joyce DiDonato [37:19]: "I just found my father, and now I've lost him again..."
- Joyce DiDonato [39:00]: "It's that mystical thing that happens where you go out of time and space..."
Conclusion
This episode of Speaking Soundly offers an intimate glimpse into the life and career of Joyce DiDonato. From her humble beginnings in Prairie Village to her meteoric rise in the operatic world, Joyce’s journey is marked by resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the craft. Her stories of personal triumphs and challenges provide invaluable insights into the life of a world-renowned performer, making this episode a must-listen for enthusiasts of classical music and opera.
For more inspiring conversations with top performers, visit artfulnarrativesmedia.com and follow Speaking Soundly on Instagram at @SpeakingSoundly. Don't forget to rate and review the podcast on your favorite platform!