Artist Interview: Angel Music Studios

Tell us about yourself and your music

I am a classically trained singer in the Italian style of bel canto. Originally inspired by lead roles in operetta and my choral experience as an undergraduate at Trinity Western University, I went on to sing with choirs all over the world while working to train my solo voice. It was at this time that I met Joseph Shore, Verdi baritone and vocal pedagogue par excellence. His example inspired me to teach others my craft and to continue learning to this day. Recording my last two CDs was an opportunity to share more extensively my love for both sacred classical music (“Wings of Rejoicing”) and opera (“Innamorato all follie”).

Talk to us more about your latest release

The arias in “Innamorato alla follie” represent some of bel canto’s celebrated operatic heroines, such as Lucia (Donizetti – “Lucia di Lammermoor”), Elvira (Bellini – “I Puritani”) and Amina (Bellini – “La Sonnambula”). This album also includes some of Verdi’s soprano roles, including Violetta’s unforgettable first act in “La Traviata.” these heroines are either madly in love, or have gone mad through misfortune in love. May the singing style most attuned to the rhythms and motions of a heart in love or in anguish, move you.

 

 

What inspired you to write this release?

I had been to Italy for a summer opera program, studying with a Bellini specialist, and was inspired to record an all-Italian opera album featuring some of the most famous soprano roles.

Any plans to release a video?

Not at present. I have several videos posted on vimeo – https://vimeo.com/user46965635

and youtube (below). Vimeo features videos from my first CD, “Wings of Rejoicing”.

 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDFt6J7uCg2DpaZRuw3ccmQ

 

Any plans to hit the road?

As I hold a full-time university instructing position, and train singers in my own studio, my performances have been mainly local.

As an indie artist, how do you brand yourself and your music to stand out from the rest of the artists out there?

That is a good question. Most classical singers are not indie artists, but have a performance career and sign on with big record label companies. I suppose the fact that I have a dual career track and have a normal day job along with my singing passion makes me unique as a classical artist. I have wondered at times if being a classical indie artist isn’t a bit of a contradiction, but I think my creativity and voice comes from the repertoire I choose to put out there and how it is messaged and compiled. That is part of the fun. I have written my own songs for the last 20 years, but at this point recording them might confuse my brand. Besides, I think classical music has the capacity to say so much more than we intend.

Who have you been listening to lately?

Pretty Yende and Elly Ameling

Tell us about your passions

The fact that a whole new day of possibilities is given to serve my God gets me up in the morning.

What else is happening next in your world?

I’m learning to stage the roles I’ve learned through local opera companies. I continue to sing in local concerts for fundraising and community events. When I can I plan to seek more professional employment with my singing.

Thanks for an awesome interview, Angelina!

 

 

Connect with Angel Music Studios

Website: http://www.angelmusicstudios.com/soprano-home

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Angelina-Van-Dyke-Soprano-1752182768341646/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/chisaitenshi

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDFt6J7uCg2DpaZRuw3ccmQ

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/angelina-van-dyke/tracks

Reverbnation: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/angelinavandyke

Genres: Classical

Source: ArtistPR Indie Artist Interview