We interviewed our Lucio Silla singers about their experiences with Mozart, what it’s really like being an opera star and why you should come see Lucio Silla…read what soprano Joanna Mongiardo (Cinna) has to say below!
What aspects of your character can you relate to?
Cinna is sometimes a difficult character to relate to. First of all, he is a HE!
Soprano Joanna Mongiardo
But, I always welcome the opportunity to sing a “pants” role and get in touch with my inner guy. There are moments in the opera where Cinna changes loyalties depending on the situation playing out in the drama. Many of his inconsistencies can easily be attributed to youth. I can relate to his behavior when I think back to when I was younger, just figuring out who I was and what I really believed in.
Why should audience members see this opera?
The music, the music, the music! The arias in Lucio Silla are a study in virtuosity. The score has a musical electricity that is not to be missed.
What’s unique about singing Mozart?
What I love most about singing Mozart is that he knew so well how to write for the voice, especially the high soprano. There are challenges in his vocal lines, but in the end those challenges become natural and so much fun to sing.
If you could ask your character any one question, what would you ask them and why?
“So, Cinna, what’s the real deal with Celia? Do you dig her or not?”
If you could meet one of the characters in Lucio Silla, who would you meet and why?
I would want to meet Celia. She’s soft-spoken, but extremely powerful when it comes to her influence over her brother. I would want to see what she’s really like. And, I’d want to know what the attraction is to Cinna.
What’s your favorite part of the opera rehearsal process?
My favorite rehearsal is always the sitzprobe. That’s the rehearsal where we work with orchestra for the first time. It’s always a very exciting experience.
Any words of wisdom for young opera singers?
An opera career comes with many ups and downs. But, the ups are so fantastic; it is worth putting up with the downs. If you love opera, stick with it. Find a way to continually be making music, improving your voice and promoting the art form. Opera needs you!
Want to learn more about Joanna? Check out her website.
Purchase tickets to see Joanna in Mozart’s Lucio Silla this June.
