We interviewed our Ezio stars about singing Gluck, what it’s really like being an opera star and why you should come see Ezio…read what mezzo-soprano Brenda Patterson (the general himself!) has to say below.
Mezzo-soprano Brenda Patterson
What aspect(s) of your character can you relate to?
There is a purity of intention in Ezio that I relate to – someone who holds certain core values, such as loyalty, deeply and dearly.
Why should audience members see this opera?
This opera is uncannily timely: the Empire struggling against the Barbarian invaders, winning the battle, but with a looming sense that things are struggling to hold together. This opera is half “Homeland”, half “House of Cards”!
What’s unique about singing Gluck?
The restraint, the nobility. Gluck is still waters running deep.
If you could ask your character any one question, what would you ask them and why?
I would ask Ezio if he still believes in fighting for the Emperor at the end – i.e., has the outcome reinforced his sense of place & purpose, or disrupted it?
If you could meet one of the characters in Ezio, who would you meet and why?
Attila the Hun ; ) Just to see if he was all he was cracked up to be.
What’s your favorite part of the opera rehearsal process?
Talking about ideas; also the Sitzprobe, when we just get to make music together.
Any words of wisdom for young opera singers?
Be like Ezio: Fight the good fight, and stay true to yourself and your art.
Want to learn more about Brenda? Visit her website.
