J’Nai Bridges meets with the Young Artists of Washington National Opera to talk about the pros, the cons and some of the loneliness surrounding life as an opera singer. “Opera singers are truly nomads,” said J’Nai.
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(people chattering) - When did you know that your artistry was enough?
I understand we have people that are coming and saying all of these different things, but when do you just like, 'Okay, this is what I'm gonna do'? And yeah.
- I've always known where my strengths lie and where my weaknesses lie.
For instance, like I always knew that singing long lines was one of my strengths.
Coloratura? Not necessarily.
I think you just have to really know yourself, and that takes time.
But try things, don't be afraid to try things.
- Why opera specifically, and like those moments where you feel like you don't wanna do the art form anymore, would drive you to keep on going doing this?
- I just see the effect that it has on people, and I really enjoy that, and it makes me feel like I'm making a difference in somebody's life and in the world.
I'm breaking down stereotypes, and all that.
I also just love the challenge of it.
And burnout is real. I've experienced it.
And I really actually didn't enjoy singing, but it was totally preventable.
I mean, a lot of things you just learn by doing and experiencing, but you deserve breaks.
I can confidently say that I have not had a 'normal life.'
I mean, I watch my friends that I grew up with, they're all married and they have children, and they have a stability in their life that, as an opera singer, is more rare.
With relationships, I'm single, ready to mingle.
(all laughing) Just saying.
Right now, I don't have any children, and my career is my baby.
So it's like right now it comes first, and it's not always easy for people to accept that.
It's tough.
I'm essentially moving every few months to a new location and making a home wherever I am.
Opera singers are truly nomads.
(bright music)
