Many of you may know that my background is in classical singing. Sometimes the mere mention of the word 'classical' in relation to singing can send people running for the hills! There is a common notion that this type of performance is very high brow and not all that accessible. While I was knee deep in my music studies I found myself constantly defending my idiom to those who, in my eyes, didn't understand the world of music I lived in. Since having some distance from that world I have had many mixed emotions and opinions on the classical world and where it fits in our society now.
People like Katherine Jenkins and Andre Rieu may have a classical background but they are often shunned by those in the classical circle as they can be seen as having 'dumbed down' their performances to make them more commonly appreciated. Now that I am standing back from the topic I ask, what is so wrong with making the classical style of music more accessible and loved by more of the general population? I am proud to call myself a classical-crossover singer because I have finally come to the realisation that this is where I am most comfortable and where I can express myself best.
I think if performers of all styles, be it classical, pop, jazz, trad, or crossover, could find a deep appreciation for each other's art we wouldn't have so many divisions between 'us and them'. We are all doing the same job. We are all trying to evoke emotion and connect with our audience. I think we can all learn a great deal from each other. Music is a universal language and while we all have our opinions on what is the 'best' type of music, we must respect all disciplines. Classical music is my background and I will always be an advocate for it and for all music.
People like Katherine Jenkins and Andre Rieu may have a classical background but they are often shunned by those in the classical circle as they can be seen as having 'dumbed down' their performances to make them more commonly appreciated. Now that I am standing back from the topic I ask, what is so wrong with making the classical style of music more accessible and loved by more of the general population? I am proud to call myself a classical-crossover singer because I have finally come to the realisation that this is where I am most comfortable and where I can express myself best.
I think if performers of all styles, be it classical, pop, jazz, trad, or crossover, could find a deep appreciation for each other's art we wouldn't have so many divisions between 'us and them'. We are all doing the same job. We are all trying to evoke emotion and connect with our audience. I think we can all learn a great deal from each other. Music is a universal language and while we all have our opinions on what is the 'best' type of music, we must respect all disciplines. Classical music is my background and I will always be an advocate for it and for all music.
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