Opera Lively singing contest

[Anne of Green Gables]

That's something that came to my mind out of the blue but it's hilarious, dig it.

I guess all (or most of) opera lovers enjoy singing their favourite stuff when nobody can hear them. How about contest which would provide opportunity to hear how people that have no (or very little) education in this matter, who never sing neither in public, perhaps not even for their friends, do sing great and difficult works. First thing that comes to your mind is: "but such contest will hardly produce anything that could be listened for pure enjoyment of listening to music!". Well, yes, and that's the beauty of it - amateur recordings with no accompaniament, made by cheap home microphones, omitting difficult ornaments and coloratura parts, even hitting wrong notes from time to time, but done with heart of opera lover. I know there is much of this fear of being ridiculous but it's won't be a tragedy if some people from e-community will hear that you're not Callas or Pavarotti. The rules of the contest are another story but let's leave it for the future if the idea will find approval. We don't need to make it right away, perhaps in future when community will get bigger.

Che invenzione, che invenzione, prelibata, bella, bella, bravo, in verita!

[sospiro]

Fantastic idea

For everyone except me :p

[AnaMendoza]

Fantastic idea

For everyone except me :p

And me! :p

[Meaghan]

Aramis, if you have the balls to sing for opera lovers on the internet, well then, I'll do it too. This sounds like (very embarrassing) fun!

[Anne of Green Gables]

Aramis, if you have the balls to sing for opera lovers on the internet, well then, I'll do it too. This sounds like (very embarrassing) fun!

Well, we all know that the best fun of all funs is the embrassing fun. I'll hold you at your word.

[AnaMendoza]

I remember reading, in an Elizabeth Peters mystery/suspense novel, about the main character, confident that no one could hear her, singing: "The mad scene from Lucia di Lammermoor, arranged for untrained contralto."

[Meaghan]

I remember reading, in an Elizabeth Peters mystery/suspense novel, about the main character, confident that no one could hear her, singing: "The mad scene from Lucia di Lammermoor, arranged for untrained contralto."

Haha! That will be me.

[sospiro]

I get a bit worried when the cows show an interest at my flat sing-a-long to medaglie incomparabili.

[Soave_Fanciulla]

I get a bit worried when the cows show an interest at my flat sing-a-long to medaglie incomparabili.

Do you do all the accents? Looking forward to a rendition in July!

[Aksel]

I'm in. For my number, I will sing the aria Chi disprezza gl'infelici from Rossini's opera Ciro in Babylonia, perhaps one of his most entertaining arias, especially considering the circumstances under which it was composed.


“I had an awful seconda donna for my opera, Ciro in Babilonia. Besides being hideously ugly, she had the most wretched voice. After trying it with the utmost care I discovered that she possessed one single good note ... So I wrote an aria for her in which she had nothing but this note to sing. All the rest I put into the orchestra, and as it was liked and applauded, my singer of the one note was delighted with her triumph.” -- Gioacchino Rossini


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Xa_20kXd6M&feature=player_embedded#!

[Anne of Green Gables]

That makes three participants so far, I'll say this makes some sense already. More or less surprisingly this number consists of the youngest part of the forum. Anyone else at least feels young enough to join us? :cool:

To second Aksel's declaration, I'm going to make duet from last act of Don Pasquale between D.P/Malatesta.

[Almaviva]

That makes three participants so far, I'll say this makes some sense already. More or less surprisingly this number consists of the youngest part of the forum. Anyone else at least feels young enough to join us? :cool:

To second Aksel's declaration, I'm going to make duet from last act of Don Pasquale between D.P/Malatesta.

Oldies can do it too. I'm in. I'll sing Non Piu Andrai from Le Nozze di Figaro (I'm sure I'll sound pretty ridiculous, especially for the coloratura parts, LOL).
But you have to tell me how to manage the technical side of it. What do I do, do I record a Windows wave file and upload it somewhere, then I provide a link to the file? Or do I make a YouTube clip? Be specific (step by step instructions) because I have never dealt with uploading any sound files or uploading a YouTube file or anything like this.

[Anne of Green Gables]

But you have to tell me how to manage the technical side of it. What do I do, do I record a Windows wave file and upload it somewhere, then I provide a link to the file? Or do I make a YouTube clip? Be specific (step by step instructions) because I have never dealt with uploading any sound files or uploading a YouTube file or anything like this.

Windows recorder is enough, you may also use free and easy program called Audacity which is very fine recording/sound edit software - that would let you cut and rerecord selected parts instead of making the whole aria by one approach without possibility to edit selected parts, fix loudness etc. It may sound scary but it's easy and to be done in few minutes.

Then you should convert it to mp3 or save it in this format at first place for your own comfort because wav files are heavy and thus are annoying to upload or send. Also, many sound-publishing sites don't accept them. You can do it with Audacity or any other of very, very many free converters to be found by googling "wav to mp3".

As for uploading it... since I'm sort of the organizer, I will create special SoundCloud profile for our little project. All participants will send their sound files to my e-mail, if someone will have some hard time with converting to mp3, I'll fix the file to proper format after receiving it in wav. Then I will upload all of them to the profile.

(Don't be afraid, I won't send those files to DG asking for commercial release)

[Almaviva]

Windows recorder is enough, you may also use free and easy program called Audacity which is very fine recording/sound edit software - that would let you cut and rerecord selected parts instead of making the whole aria by one approach without possibility to edit selected parts, fix loudness etc. It may sound scary but it's easy and to be done in few minutes.

Then you should convert it to mp3 or save it in this format at first place for your own comfort because wav files are heavy and thus are annoying to upload or send. Also, many sound-publishing sites don't accept them. You can do it with Audacity or any other of very, very many free converters to be found by googling "wav to mp3".

As for uploading it... since I'm sort of the organizer, I will create special SoundCloud profile for our little project. All participants will send their sound files to my e-mail, if someone will have some hard time with converting to mp3, I'll fix the file to proper format after receiving it in wav. Then I will upload all of them to the profile.

(Don't be afraid, I won't send those files to DG asking for commercial release)

No, you *should* send my version of Non Piu Andrai to DG because I'm sure the whole world will fall in love with it. I offer you 15% of the profits.:cool:

I think this project will be a lot of fun. I hope more people join.

[sospiro]

Do you do all the accents?

Of course! I do a very good screechy Badate: è roba fragile! but Ruggero's English accent on oriundo della China is actually better than mine.


Looking forward to a rendition in July!

Not half as much (http://www.bachtrack.com/about/Jakobski,+Lukas) as I am.

[MAuer]

And me! :p

Ditto! :o

[Elektra]

This could be really fun! Opera lovers searching for perfect voices ...
I'm in!

If there's more people who are afraid to sing (reveal their voice) there's one possible solution. Aramis could post our files without telling who's the owner of the voice.

[Anne of Green Gables]

If there's more people who are afraid to sing (reveal their voice) there's one possible solution. Aramis could post our files without telling who's the owner of the voice.

That would be good idea but I'm afraid that since we already got some declarations of what pieces people will sing it is hardly possible to apply this for all participants and I can't imagine selective anonymity, some recordings being singed and some not. So it won't work this time. Anyway, I think that being shy like this is totally unreasonable and if one has such reservations it may only serve him/her well to overcome them in such innocent fun.

------------------------------------------

Okay, since we got the thing going, let me propose some regulations:

- Anyone willing to participate should select one (and has right to select another one if the first is under three minutes of continious singing) fragments from operas that he will record with no throughout accompaniament (minor instrumental inserts, tapping rhythm and humming instrumental parts are allowed) and submit it to the contest.

- Selected fragments may be transposed and sung by other voice types than they were written for.

- The recordings should be sent to my e-mail which I will send by PM to all who will apply in this thread stating that he/she is willing to participate and will provide information regarding what is he/she going to sing.

- After I receive all announced recordings I shall present them on SoundCloud page and we will elect the winners in public forum poll (no, voting for yourself won't be allowed).

-------------------------------------------

So, hey, ho, let's go. I'm waiting for those who declared their participation without stating their repertoire (Meaghan, Elektra) to specify what will they sing. We're also still open for any further participants, all the way until the opening of the poll.

[Meaghan]

- Selected fragments may be transposed and sung by other voice types than they were written for.


Well, then, I want a tenor aria! I'm thinking Questa o quella, as it has been stuck in my head for the past two weeks.

Also, do we have a deadline? (And can we make it not immediately? I want to practice!)

[Anne of Green Gables]

Well, then, I want a tenor aria! I'm thinking Questa o quella, as it has been stuck in my head for the past two weeks.

Also, do we have a deadline? (And can we make it not immediately? I want to practice!)

I thought about deadline but eventually gave up the idea, no need to have rigid time regulations in these circumstances. But I think that one week for practicing while taking shower and by other occassions + another week to find some spare time and record it is reasonable. So I guess we'll have things done before the "grand" opening, this edition (if others will follow in the future) may be warm-up before another which would take place after the community will get going on full speed.

[GualtierMalde]

I could certainly contribute if an appropriate piece can be found. Does anyone know of an aria that requires a range of not more than about half an octave and where it's not essential to hit the written notes exactly (a deviation of up to four whole tones should be acceptable).

I'm looking forward to appreciating your efforts but I do feel slightly guilty (it's a bit like going to the sauna fully dressed).

[Couchie]

I am also in.

I'll be singing the end of Götterdämmerung from "Grane, mein Ross" through to the immolation.

[Schigolch]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMrq0amKapc

[Eorrific]

Great idea, Aramis! It's definitely more fun to actually participate, but I can't even hold a note, so for the time being I'll just be a good audience and applaud each time an aria ends. ;)

[Aksel]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMrq0amKapc

Oh dear. Just goes to show how difficult this piece of music is.

[Almaviva]

I could certainly contribute if an appropriate piece can be found. Does anyone know of an aria that requires a range of not more than about half an octave and where it's not essential to hit the written notes exactly (a deviation of up to four whole tones should be acceptable).

I'm looking forward to appreciating your efforts but I do feel slightly guilty (it's a bit like going to the sauna fully dressed).

I think Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star may be what you're looking for.:)

[AnaMendoza]

I'm actually starting to want to participate--technical issues of actually recording something might be what holds me back, now.

[rgz]

Hm I'll consider it, depending on just how terrible I sound when I listen to it :D
Considering either Largo al Factotum (which is a bit high in its normal key, and a touch low an octave down), Ah Mes Amis an octave down, or O wie will Ich Triumpherin. Or maybe, if I'm feeling extraordinarily ambitious, I'll do the Don Giovanni - Commendatore - Leporello scene :D

[rgz]

I could certainly contribute if an appropriate piece can be found. Does anyone know of an aria that requires a range of not more than about half an octave and where it's not essential to hit the written notes exactly (a deviation of up to four whole tones should be acceptable).

I believe so; Andrea Bocelli has made a career of performing just such pieces. ;)

[Almaviva]

I was planning to record my singing today... caught a nasty cold, I'm hoarse, sneezing, and with a runny nose. Can't sing a note in these circumstances. The world will have to wait for the moment when it will fall in love with Almaviva's stupendous baritone voice.:cool: Poor Bryn Terfel, his days are over. He needs to enjoy his lead while he can, and hope that this cold lingers a little longer.:D

[Anne of Green Gables]

No worries, others are not to send their stuff in nearliest days neither. Take your time.

[Almaviva]

I'm actually starting to want to participate--technical issues of actually recording something might be what holds me back, now.

Aramis will be able to guide you through the technical side, he did give me some instructions.

[sospiro]

I was planning to record my singing today... caught a nasty cold, I'm hoarse, sneezing, and with a runny nose. Can't sing a note in these circumstances.

http://www.cheesebuerger.de/images/smilie/muede/o045.gif

Oh no the dreaded *man-flu*. Hope you feel better soon.



The world will have to wait for the moment when it will fall in love with Almaviva's stupendous baritone voice.:cool: Poor Bryn Terfel, his days are over. He needs to enjoy his lead while he can, and hope that this cold lingers a little longer.:D

I'm sure he's extremely concerned. :p

[Anne of Green Gables]

Aramis will be able to guide you through the technical side, he did give me some instructions.

Yes, I can always offer some guidance. But belive me, this is really easy and shouldn't be problematic for any regular PC user.

[Almaviva]

I'm sure he's extremely concerned. :p

Well, if he's not, he should be. All his future contracts are in jeopardy, because opera house managers will be dumping him and flocking to me once they hear my rendition of Non più andrai.:cool:

[Almaviva]

OK, brave Almaviva has sent to Aramis his ridiculous mp3 file in which he makes a fool of himself trying to sing La Donna è Mobile in the middle of a bout of the common cold: hoarse, and with a stuffy nose. So my detractors, I actually *can* do better than this, but I thought that if I waited for the cold to go away, I would humiliate too much all the professional singers out there, so I sent it in anyway (and cheated, no sustained high notes, hehehe).

Warning: it *is* bad.:o

PS - I tried Non più andrai. Too difficult. Even more embarrassing.:( Bryn Terfel's contracts are safe for now.

[Anne of Green Gables]

Heee, definitely a lyric fach, good to portray characters so shy that they don't even dare to sing in full dynamic =S

But it's not that bad, at worst you will be second from the bottom, over me.

[Couchie]

I'm still learning mine. Wagner is a bit of an ass. A minor 6th followed by a major 6th? Who calls their horse with that?

[Anne of Green Gables]

I'm still learning mine. Wagner is a bit of an ass. A minor 6th followed by a major 6th? Who calls their horse with that?

American scientists proved that such progression fits musical taste of horses. Not back in XIXth century for sure but it only shows how forward-looking Wagner really was.

[Amfortas]

The world will have to wait for the moment when it will fall in love with Almaviva's stupendous baritone voice.:cool: Poor Bryn Terfel, his days are over . . .

OK, now the gauntlet has been thrown. I will have to rise up to the challenge with *my* stupendous baritone voice. Maybe dust off "Di Provenza" . . .

I too may need some technical advice, though.

[Anne of Green Gables]

Good, good, the more - the better. Sing boldly and send without delay, main libe zenger. If you will have any problems ask for help here.

[Almaviva]

Hehehe, I "liked" my first post... and Aramis got the honor!

[CountessAdele]

Oh dear, I sing along with my Diana Damrau cds sometimes but I hardly know the words and I don't have a recording without someone else already singing on it. Um hmm maybe I could sing Barbarina's little aria, though I've only heard it a few times. Or maybe some other soubrette aria...Um I'm going to think about it so don't count me in yet!

[Almaviva]

Oh dear, I sing along with my Diana Damrau cds sometimes but I hardly know the words and I don't have a recording without someone else already singing on it. Um hmm maybe I could sing Barbarina's little aria, though I've only heard it a few times. Or maybe some other soubrette aria...Um I'm going to think about it so don't count me in yet!

You can get the words from the Internet, and usually at least for the main arias you can get a karaoke YouTube to function as your background orchestra. Come on, Adele, if I did it, you can do it!

[Soave_Fanciulla]

Oh dear, I sing along with my Diana Damrau cds sometimes but I hardly know the words and I don't have a recording without someone else already singing on it. Um hmm maybe I could sing Barbarina's little aria, though I've only heard it a few times. Or maybe some other soubrette aria...Um I'm going to think about it so don't count me in yet!

I love that aria, such exquisite music for a little pin!

[Almaviva]

Have you seen how many thread views this one got? Everybody seems to be curious about our singing! (little do they know, what a disaster it probably will be, LOL). So people, get going, send your files to Aramis (I've sent mine already).

[Anne of Green Gables]

Yes, no other arrived so far, let's move on, I hope at least half of declared participants will send theirs within a week. If you wait too long you loose your readiness.

[Aksel]

Yes, no other arrived so far, let's move on, I hope at least half of declared participants will send theirs within a week. If you wait too long you loose your readiness.

I'll need to get back to school to record mine. I'll be there within a week, though.

[CountessAdele]

You can get the words from the Internet, and usually at least for the main arias you can get a karaoke YouTube to function as your background orchestra. Come on, Adele, if I did it, you can do it!

Haha you had to pull the guilt trip on me! Ok I've got the lyrics, the piano sheet music (I couldn't find a orchestra-only recording), and even someone who can play the piece (...maybe) and record me at the same time, but I won't see her untill thursday. Oh I'll be singing L'ho Perduta Me Meschina, Barbarina's tiny aria haha!

[Couchie]

I'm still waiting for midnight, Dec. 31st, so I can properly usher in 2012 and the end of the world as we know it.

[Anne of Green Gables]

I've misjudged range of my voice, I can't sing the duet I wrote about before. I'll sing that easy stretta from Barbiere, "Il piu lieto, piu felice..."

[Couchie]

I'm not a bass-baritone, I'm a heldentenor with a very limited top...

[Anne of Green Gables]

What's up?

[Almaviva]

Incredible, this is such a good idea, and I've been the only one to upload a sound track? Come on, folks, this will be fun!

[Anne of Green Gables]

At worst we will have a duel between you and me. Or I will break forum security, delete this thread so nobody will be able to prove that there was any contest and I'll post your singing online telling people that you sent me this just out of the blue, saying "hello my dream is to sing I love to sing it's magic hear me sing I love it so much what do you think alas it's from my heart don't show it to anybody".

[CountessAdele]

I'm going to try, my piano player got the flu so I don't know if can. :culpability:

[Couchie]

Incredible, this is such a good idea, and I've been the only one to upload a sound track? Come on, folks, this will be fun!
As they say, be careful what you wish for. :devilish:

[Anne of Green Gables]

Let 17th of current month be the deadline for the contest.

[Almaviva]

Due to the low yield of this contest, I think we need to come up with prizes for the winners. I suggest a date with Anna Netrebko, if she agrees [Alma rushes to the yellow pages to look for voice teachers]

[CountessAdele]

Haha, ok I've got my recordings. Plural because we recorded it with a phone and had to break it up into two parts. Sorry about that! Ugh!! I can't believe I'm gonna let yall hear my baby voice! Just don't expect an "opera" sound! And you know what why don't you all drink some wine before you listen, it'll be more enjoyable that way! ;) So Aramis I'll try to send you the files.

[Anne of Green Gables]

So I have two recordings already, with my own to surely follow. It makes three. I'm still hoping that Couchie and Aksel will send theirs, five would make serious bunch. I guess Maeghan enjoys some no-internet time right now (didn't see her around recently).

Get ready for astonishing musical experience anyway.

[Almaviva]

My hoarseness and stuffy nose went away. I could do better now. Maybe I should re-recorder.
Or not. If I lose, I can always use the illness as an excuse.:devilish:

[Couchie]

I will send my immolation of Siegfried's gay lover this weekend. :curtain_call:

[Anne of Green Gables]

I'm still waiting for Couchie's recording. I will finally record mine tomorrow (organizers get one additional day, did I mention that?) and I hope to post, if not the very same day on the evening, then certainly on 19th.

[Almaviva]

I've just realized that I do a mean Je Crois Entendre Encore. I should have selected this one.

[Anne of Green Gables]

He, feel free to do it and send today or tomorrow, I'll count that in.

[Couchie]

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/5889/finishedd.jpg

[Aksel]

I'll send mine in soon. Promise. I've just got to get over the cold I'm having. I'll try to send it in tomorrow.

[Anne of Green Gables]

Okay, we'll wait for Aksel. But let's not wait too long, what I received already should be revealed to the world as soon as possible.

[Almaviva]

I'll send mine in soon. Promise. I've just got to get over the cold I'm having. I'll try to send it in tomorrow.

That's not fair. I recorded mine in the middle of a big-time cold!:mad-new:

[Anne of Green Gables]

All of you who didn't dare to send their stuff because they thought "no, not me, I can't sing!" may be all like WELL, LIKE THAT... PERHAPS I COULD TOO :dejection: after hearing those who did participate.

[Anne of Green Gables]

By the way, even though arias we sing are all famous, I will provide YouTube link next to each so people may compare ours with professional performances. If someone wants to have particular recording avaiable on YT next to his, let me know.

[AnaMendoza]

Aha! This is where the Florence Foster Jenkins recordings could be very useful.

[Aksel]

That's not fair. I recorded mine in the middle of a big-time cold!:mad-new:

Oy! My voice has been gone for the last two days. I only got it back properly today.

[CountessAdele]

By the way, even though arias we sing are all famous, I will provide YouTube link next to each so people may compare ours with professional performances. If someone wants to have particular recording avaiable on YT next to his, let me know.

Woa! Now hang on a sec! ...Well I guess mine can't get much worse so, I guess a comparison with a pro won't make much difference haha! Just don't be surprised if I don't show up when you post these! I'll be too embarassed!

[Almaviva]

By the way, even though arias we sing are all famous, I will provide YouTube link next to each so people may compare ours with professional performances. If someone wants to have particular recording avaiable on YT next to his, let me know.

In your place I wouldn't do it. You know, it will be very unfair to the professionals, because I'm sure we'll easily outperform them and they'll feel ashamed.:biggrin:

[Couchie]

By the way, even though arias we sing are all famous, I will provide YouTube link next to each so people may compare ours with professional performances. If someone wants to have particular recording avaiable on YT next to his, let me know.
Flagstad, Nilsson, or somebody else in my league.

[Anne of Green Gables]

Well, all is ready and set, we just wait for Aksel's recording to join the rest. GO GO POWDER RANGERS I hope I'll have it tomorrow soon enough to start voting thread the very same day.

[Anne of Green Gables]

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Karaoke+opera+midi+&oq=Karaoke+opera+midi+&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&gs_sm=3&gs_upl=65290l65290l0l65635l1l1l0l0l0l0l199l199l0.1 l1l0

Quite a choice, all in same good quality and from same uploader. Is it excuse good enough for another edition?

[Almaviva]

I'd do another edition. My choice: Je crois entendre encore.

[CountessAdele]

Would it have to be an aria? I only know L'ho Perduta, I could sing it again (it would sound much better this time around). I'd like to have another contest though.

[Anne of Green Gables]

Would it have to be an aria?

If you want, you may sing Chopin etude instead. I suggest you sing right hand part from this one: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv42d0zbIcI or this one http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXS5c6TXhKo

Of course that would be the easiest way. You don't need to really learn and master new aria to record it for this contest, it's just a fun so you could as well sing from the memory without any serious preparation.

[Couchie]

I can't sing Chopin etude.

[Amfortas]

I would like to participate, but I'm a bit limited technically. If I can figure out a way to make it work, I'll take a stab at it.

[emiellucifuge]

Ill also join but i have the same issue as Amfortas, also I have very little free time nowadays so have patience...

[Anne of Green Gables]

Considering how easy it is to figure out, we may already count for four participants: me, Almaviva, Adele and Amfortas - I guess that's enough to consider second edition officially started. Of course more will be better so let's hope it won't end at this number.

The procedures as previously, record your renditions and send them to my e-mail. No strict deadline - a week from now on I'll send my adress via PM to all who will declare their will to participate in this thread. You may have it recorded already and send it at once or take your time and hesitate for another week or two, as long as it won't extremely delay the conclusion (which, I'm sure, everybody will be expecting impatiently).

HEY HO, LET'S GO

[Almaviva]

There's Emiel as well, so that's five. Emiel and Amfortas, earlier in this thread Aramis has already explained the technical side, it's pretty easy.

[CountessAdele]

Yay! I might sing Once Upon a Dream from Sleeping Beauty, ooh or I Could Have Danced All Night from My Fair Lady! Since I can't sing Chopin etude. ;p

[Couchie]

I'm in, ready to defend my title!

[AnaMendoza]

I'm in, ready to defend my title!

Liebestod, this time?

[emiellucifuge]

Any ideas what I could sing? Im a full bass who struggles mightily above D above middle C

[Aksel]

Any ideas what I could sing? Im a full bass who struggles mightily above D above middle C

Ah, mes amis, from Fille du Regiment.

[Couchie]

Any ideas what I could sing? Im a full bass who struggles mightily above D above middle C
Don Giovanni, a cenar teco

[treemaker]

I like this thread. Congratulations to you all.

I always knew that if I were asked to sing opera, I would sing the Klopstock duet from "Werther". If you recall, an unknown couple walk on stage, boyfriend and girlfriend. The man is intently reading a book. He looks very studious and sings: "Klopstock!". His girlfriend replies: "Devin Klopstock!" They embrace enraptured and walk off stage. Then, of course, at the end of the opera, they join in the bows just as if they had each sung a complete aria.

I have sung more than my fair share of karaoke, back in the day, so much so that I stripped my voice. I'm not going to join you in this contest, but I will gladly applaud from the sidelines.

[Amfortas]

I *may* have worked out the space and equipment to take a stab at this.

And if I do, I'm going for the whole ball of wax.

Just so you know.

[emiellucifuge]

Sorry but I cant find technical help from Aramis anywhere!!

Also, what are the rules on accompaniment etc..?

[Anne of Green Gables]

Also, what are the rules on accompaniment etc..?

There were some but everybody did what pleased him and it worked fine so this time we won't set any.

[Amfortas]

All right, I am now officially scheduled to record my piece this Thursday. I will send it on to Aramis shortly thereafter.

Who else is definitely participating this round?

[emiellucifuge]

All right, I am now officially scheduled to record my piece this Thursday. I will send it on to Aramis shortly thereafter.

Who else is definitely participating this round?

I am, but I have two issues:

1. I cant find Aramis's technical help in this thread- are you sure it was posted? If not, would you mind helping me out with the recording Aramis?

2. I dont know what to sing! The only operas im really familiar with are Wagner's and his bass parts are too high! Anymore ideas please?

[Aksel]

2. I dont know what to sing! The only operas im really familiar with are Wagner's and his bass parts are too high! Anymore ideas please?

One of Sarastro's arias from Zauberflöte? They don't go over middle C.

[Almaviva]

I am, but I have two issues:

1. I cant find Aramis's technical help in this thread- are you sure it was posted? If not, would you mind helping me out with the recording Aramis?

2. I dont know what to sing! The only operas im really familiar with are Wagner's and his bass parts are too high! Anymore ideas please?

Sorry, Emiel, I remember that there were explanations, but maybe they were posted in another thread, or maybe sent to me by PM... I remember that I needed them to be able to record my piece, that's why I'm sure they were written up by Aramis (otherwise, technologically challenged like I am, I wouldn't have been able to participate). So, if it wasn't in this thread, maybe Aramis can repeat them for you.

[Amfortas]

Here ya go:


Windows recorder is enough, you may also use free and easy program called Audacity which is very fine recording/sound edit software - that would let you cut and rerecord selected parts instead of making the whole aria by one approach without possibility to edit selected parts, fix loudness etc. It may sound scary but it's easy and to be done in few minutes.

Then you should convert it to mp3 or save it in this format at first place for your own comfort because wav files are heavy and thus are annoying to upload or send. Also, many sound-publishing sites don't accept them. You can do it with Audacity or any other of very, very many free converters to be found by googling "wav to mp3".

As for uploading it... since I'm sort of the organizer, I will create special SoundCloud profile for our little project. All participants will send their sound files to my e-mail, if someone will have some hard time with converting to mp3, I'll fix the file to proper format after receiving it in wav. Then I will upload all of them to the profile.

(Don't be afraid, I won't send those files to DG asking for commercial release)

[emiellucifuge]

Thank you both, was I very stupid or was that found somewhere else?

What kind of 'recording equipment' did you guys use?

[Amfortas]

Thank you both, was I very stupid or was that found somewhere else?

There's more than one "singing contest" thread--I got that quote from the first one created.


What kind of 'recording equipment' did you guys use?

I didn't participate in the first round, and will borrow my ex-wife's husband's digital recorder for the second. Don't know the make or model, sorry. How about you other guys?

[Almaviva]

I used my Digital Voice Recorder, the same one I use for interviews. It's the Olympus VN-8100PC.

But wait a moment, your ex-wife's husband, Amfortas? When you connect the thing to your computer, I bet there will be some hard disk-eating virus!:scared2:

[CountessAdele]

It will be a while before I can make a recording, I discovered I had a food allergy today, had no idea. I had a bad reaction which made my throat close and then feel like it was on fire. It's better now, it just feels like I gargled with sand. I can't talk yet so it may be a few days before I can sing. :(

[Almaviva]

It will be a while before I can make a recording, I discovered I had a food allergy today, had no idea. I had a bad reaction which made my throat close and then feel like it was on fire. It's better now, it just feels like I gargled with sand. I can't talk yet so it may be a few days before I can sing. :(

Excuses, excuses. The Countess has called in sick. She knows she'll lose this time since Alma will win.
[PS - get well soon!]

[Amfortas]

IBut wait a moment, your ex-wife's husband, Amfortas? When you connect the thing to your computer, I bet there will be some hard disk-eating virus!:scared2:

Too late, then, since I already used it for the Stephen Andrew Taylor interview (which I'm slowly transcribing). No signs of any virus yet, although ^%$RHJ%RYREFHRFDETGHBHYTHGYTRfJuytRedfGHtRedfgtred fgI765rFGHu76%$erT7uyhTr


It will be a while before I can make a recording, I discovered I had a food allergy today, had no idea. I had a bad reaction which made my throat close and then feel like it was on fire. It's better now, it just feels like I gargled with sand. I can't talk yet so it may be a few days before I can sing. :(

Aw. I hope you make a full recovery soon, Countess. Those food allergies can be awful--my ex-wife (yes, the same one) has them pretty bad. Just have to learn to be careful about what you eat.

[Almaviva]

Those food allergies can be awful--my ex-wife (yes, the same one) has them pretty bad.

You sure it's a food allergy? I heard in the grapevine that your ex-wife is allergic to Amfortas.

[Amfortas]

You sure it's a food allergy? I heard in the grapevine that your ex-wife is allergic to Amfortas.

Well, she *is* allergic to nuts, so you may have something there. 339

[emiellucifuge]

Im sorry about this, but I simply dont have time in my schedule to participate right now. On friday im going on holiday, so its a little hectic to finish all kinds of work before I go.
Im almost as busy as an opera singer.

Apologies,
Emiel

[Anne of Green Gables]

~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+
What do you think I could adorn all my post with this kind of flourish

Like that, I come and write:


~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~
{} Indeed... great recording... {}
~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~

Anyway, I just wanted to say that Amfortas has been somehow left alone on the battleground, Almaviva gets funky in NYC, CountessAdele has been seduced by Don Comaro... what shall be we shall see, just reminding about the contest to all involved.

[Amfortas]

It's to be expected. Once everyone heard that I had entered the lists, they all scurried away in fear. Like scared leetle bunnies.

I claim victory by default! All hail the mighty Amfortas! http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y96/RavenLover/My%20website/Smileys/headbang.gif

Unless, of course, some of you guys *do* want to step up to the plate . . .

[Anne of Green Gables]

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y96/RavenLover/My%20website/Smileys/headbang.gif

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y96/RavenLover/My%20website/Smileys/headbang.gifCastle of Metalheadshttp://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y96/RavenLover/My%20website/Smileys/headbang.gif

[Couchie]

I will record mine this weekend. Looking forward to taking Amfortas down a few pegs.

[Amfortas]

No, not the green monster! The great Brünnhilde of our age!

I concede defeat already. http://www.sherv.net/cm/emoticons/fighting/waving-white-flag.gif

[Couchie]

I didn't record this weekend as I had and still have a bad cough. Don't worry though, it's coming!

[Anne of Green Gables]

I'm sorry to inform those who declared participation and didn't send their recordings that I've just found wealthy patron for the contest who set a prize of 10 pesos for the winner. Grab your microphones now and record without preparation, on thursday I'm making a conclusion thread with what we'll have.

[Amfortas]

10 pesos! Me gusta! :happydance.2:

[Amfortas]

¿Que? ¿No pesos?

[Anne of Green Gables]

WELL I LIED

But I will post concluding thread in forthcoming days, I want to try recording something myself so at least we'll have duel, not walk-over victory. If someone feels like doing it he may feel free to catch up until new thread is still not there.

[Amfortas]

WELL I LIED

Not only that, sir. You also symphony.

[Couchie]

OH MY ARAMIS QUIT BADGERING ME I SAID IT IS COMING IT IS COMING, SEE, IT IS COMING LIKE I SAID IT WOULD YOU THINK I CAN JUST UP AND LEARN THE PEAK OF THE ENTIRE REPERTOIRE IN A SINGLE MONTH I NEED AT LEAST 6 WEEKS TO DO IT JUSTICE I AM PRACTICING 23 HOURS A DAY I JUST NEED A BIT MORE TIME TO REACH THE LEVEL OF PERFECTION EXPECTED OF ME AFTER THE FIRST CONTEST :mad5426:

[Amfortas]

Wow. Me, I just winged it.

[Amfortas]

WELL I LIED


Not only that, sir. You also symphony.

Now I feel bad. I'm getting "likes" for the above, when I was just repeating Aramis's pun from another thread.

Gotta give credit (or blame) where it's due. ;)

[Anne of Green Gables]

Now I feel bad. I'm getting "likes" for the above, when I was just repeating Aramis's pun from another thread.

Gotta give credit (or blame) where it's due. ;)

I demand you send all financial retributions you received for posts that repeated my concepts to my account. Then I'll pay the other geezer who invented all my concepts and I just repeated them, two links later money goes to professional writer, then after another hundred it reaches Schiller and finally, after 32875434 links more all that money goes to Shakespeare because he had all the world's concepts and ultimately we all just repeat them.

[Amfortas]

I demand you send all financial retributions you received for posts that repeated my concepts to my account. Then I'll pay the other geezer who invented all my concepts and I just repeated them, two links later money goes to professional writer, then after another hundred it reaches Schiller and finally, after 32875434 links more all that money goes to Shakespeare because he had all the world's concepts and ultimately we all just repeat them.

I knew it! Creativity is all just one big pyramid scheme!

[Couchie]

After months of practice, I have submitted my submission.

[Almaviva]

If Elena House decides to submit something, you'll be all in trouble.

[Anne of Green Gables]

After months of practice, I have submitted my submission.

We have it. Now my thing remains and shall be done in couple of days.

Expect concluding thread shortly.


If Elena House decides to submit something, you'll be all in trouble.

Yes, certainly in trouble if we would have to watch another of those cute videos.

[Almaviva]

Hm... maybe I'll still submit my Je crois entendre encore (The Pearl Fishers).

[Anne of Green Gables]

Go ahead, John.

[Almaviva]

Later tonight. Taking advantage of the fact that there is no Euro 2012 game today. If I don't have to scream at the Italian players, my voice will be in better shape.

[Amfortas]

Yes, certainly in trouble if we would have to watch another of those cute videos.

Not so fast. I have submitted my own cute video. "Quando men vo." Elegant sets, lovely gown.

Aramis, did you get it?

[Anne of Green Gables]

Aramis, did you get it?

Yes, after ten minutes of thinking I finally got it - you mention gown and aria about woman singing about being attractive and enjoying looks that men send her while being male, the point of the joke is that we imagine you, a geezer, in that gown, singing that aria while making seductive gestures. This picture can be considered comical and it makes us laugh.

Did I get it right?

[Amfortas]

Yes, after ten minutes of thinking I finally got it - you mention gown and aria about woman singing about being attractive and enjoying looks that men send her while being male, the point of the joke is that we imagine you, a geezer, in that gown, singing that aria while making seductive gestures. This picture can be considered comical and it makes us laugh.

Did I get it right?

Um . . . no.

I meant . . . did you receive my video? Which I created in all seriousness. And put my heart and soul into (not to mention hours sewing the dress). Which you have seen fit to mock. Without even viewing.

I withdraw my submission.

You break my heart.

[Anne of Green Gables]

These lies are like their father that begets them, gross as a mountain, open, palpable. Why, thou claybrained guts, thou knotty-pated fool, thou whoreson, obscene, greasy tallow- catch— Why, how couldst thou withdraw submission when it was sent already? Come, tell us your reason. What sayest thou to this?

[Amfortas]

What, upon compulsion? 'Zounds, an I were at the strappado, or all the racks in the world, I would not tell you on compulsion. Give you a reason on compulsion! If reasons were as plentiful as blackberries, I would give no man a reason upon compulsion, I.

But for the record, I never really sent you my video. It was all a clever ruse. And you, of course, fell right into my trap!

Muahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaaaaa

[Anne of Green Gables]

Well, breathe awhile, and then to it again, and when thou hast tired thyself, hear me speak but this.

I and Couchie saw you set on Elena House, and bound her and were master of her gown. Mark now how a plain tale shall put you down. Then did we two set on you and, with a word, outfaced you from your prize, and have it; yea, and can show it you here in the thread. And, Amfortas, you carried your guts away as nimbly, with as quick dexterity, and roared for mercy, and still run and roared, as ever I heard bull-calf. What a slave art thou to hack thy computer as thou hast done, and then say it was in attempt to send your video! What trick, what device, what starting-hole canst thou now find out to hide thee from this open and apparent shame?

[Amfortas]

By the Lord, I knew ye as well as he that made ye. Why, hear you, my masters: was it for me to kill the Aramis-apparent? Should I turn upon the true Aramis? Why, thou knowest I am as valiant as Almaviva: but beware instinct. The Amfortas will not touch the true Aramis. Instinct is a great matter; I was now a coward on instinct. I shall think the better of myself and thee during my life; I for a valiant Amfortas, and thou for a true Aramis.

[CountessAdele]

I am thoroughly enjoying these exchanges. Gents, adieu!

[Almaviva]

Me too. And I was so entertained, that I forgot to submit my submission.

[Anne of Green Gables]

Me too. And I was so entertained, that I forgot to submit my submission.

My man is on his way to get it from you:

http://assets.perfectlytimedphotos.com/hashed_silo_content/silo_content/31928/resized/obama_041.jpg

[Anne of Green Gables]

My recording of Ah, il piu lieto, il piu felice was brutally disturbed today.

Almaviva, you have one more day to record your thing, like 24 hours, since I won't be able to resume recording mine today.

[Almaviva]

My recording of Ah, il piu lieto, il piu felice was brutally disturbed today.

Almaviva, you have one more day to record your thing, like 24 hours, since I won't be able to resume recording mine today.

Sir, yes, Sir! Sir, Sorry, Sir! Sir, will do, Sir!

[Almaviva]

OK, I have recorded my submission. It's been sent to you, Aramis!

[Elena House]

If Elena House decides to submit something, you'll be all in trouble.

OK. How do I get in?

More importantly, how do I hear the results of the first competition? Is there a link?

[treemaker]

Here (http://operalively.com/forums/showthread.php/994-%28II%29-Opera-Lively-Singing-Contest-Conclusion) is a link to the results of the first competition.

[Amfortas]

That was actually the second competition. Here (http://operalively.com/forums/showthread.php/429-Opera-Lively-singing-contest-conclusion?highlight=opera+lively+singing+contest) is the first one.

[Couchie]

Amfortas destroyed my glory and honour.

[Anne of Green Gables]

Amfortas destroyed my glory and honour.

Now we should do separate contest just for the two of you singing the same Wagner scene.

[Amfortas]

Amfortas destroyed my glory and honour.

Can Amfortas sing with rapturous abandon as he rides his steed onto the burning pyre of his beloved, fallen hero?

Can Amfortas fill the perfumed night with the soaring, timeless voices of Tristan, Isolde, and Brangäne--all at once?

No, no, and again . . . no.

Your glory and honor are safe, my friend. Indeed, they shine brighter than ever.

[Anne of Green Gables]

WELL HOW ABOUT ANOTHER ONE

We're still in holidays time and could make us of that. If anyone is willing to choollo... his density... SIGN HERE <puts ancient scroll on the table>

[Amfortas]

Amfortas

[Couchie]

Couchie

Deadline 3 months from now per usual?

[Anne of Green Gables]

Couchie

Deadline 3 months from now per usual?

There never was any deadline. Deadline may appear if all have sent their recording except of one, then we must hurry him up by deciding how much we're going to wait until we get to conclusion without him/her. The rule is you just record and send your thing as soon as you are able to without injuring it's artistric quality or losing your job because you were absent in work for week to practice your aria.

[Amfortas]

There never was any deadline. Deadline may appear if all have sent their recording except of one, then we must hurry him up by deciding how much we're going to wait until we get to conclusion without him/her. The rule is you just record and send your thing as soon as you are able to without injuring it's artistric quality or losing your job because you were absent in work for week to practice your aria.

You mean that losing the job thing wasn't supposed to happen?

[Almaviva]

You mean that losing the job thing wasn't supposed to happen?

I would sign up... if my previous brave efforts weren't as poorly received as they were... I don't want to be "also ran" again...:cry2:

[Anne of Green Gables]

I would sign up... if my previous brave efforts weren't as poorly received as they were... I don't want to be "also ran" again...:cry2:

If you don't participate you will turn from "also ran" to "ran away in disgrace" .

[Anne of Green Gables]

So we got three (including me). Fine, it's enough to launch it BUT I do hope that fourth or even fifth will join up. Both Couchie and Amfortas have my e-mail already so all is settled and I'm expecting recordings there.

[Amfortas]

Here's an idea: maybe people would be less afraid to take the plunge if we didn't call it a "contest." What if instead we called it the Opera Lively Singing "Recital" . . . or "Festival" . . . or "Eisteddfod"?

Just a thought.

[Anne of Green Gables]

I don't think it would make a change, all potential participants are our regular members and know very well anyway that this is not serious competition, while the "contest" word makes it all more glorious and refers to Wagner opera.

[sunandshadow]

OMG this is hilarious. I wonder if I have a working microphone around here anywhere...

[sunandshadow]

So, I followed along with one of those handy youtube videos to determine your voice range. My working range (meaning the notes I can usually hit, more or less) is C3-C5. This is apparently a tenor range? I read that the lowest female voice range is contralto, but I listened to some contralto arias and most of them had at least a few notes too high for me. Tenor, I can sing right along but I'm not sure how feminine or not the timber of my voice sounds. So what should I sing? I was kind of thinking Der vogelfanger from The Magic Flute, which is originally baritone but I found at least two recordings of a tenor singing it. It's an absurd song anyway, so if being sung by a woman makes it more absurd, that fits right in, right?

[Almaviva]

So, I followed along with one of those handy youtube videos to determine your voice range. My working range (meaning the notes I can usually hit, more or less) is C3-C5. This is apparently a tenor range? I read that the lowest female voice range is contralto, but I listened to some contralto arias and most of them had at least a few notes too high for me. Tenor, I can sing right along but I'm not sure how feminine or not the timber of my voice sounds. So what should I sing? I was kind of thinking Der vogelfanger from The Magic Flute, which is originally baritone but I found at least two recordings of a tenor singing it. It's an absurd song anyway, so if being sung by a woman makes it more absurd, that fits right in, right?

You can find explanations about voice range (and many other technical aspects of singing) in our Educational Area, thread Opera Terms - especifically here for voice range: [clicky (http://operalively.com/forums/showthread.php/50-Opera-Terms?p=318&viewfull=1#post318)]

[sunandshadow]

Yeah - I had read that, actually, but it certainly doesn't hurt to look at it again. It shows the same contradiction I'm seeing elsewhere. In the picture showing the ranges on the keyboard, I'm clearly a tenor. But there isn't a picture there labeled contralto (or counter-tenor for that matter, their voices are definitely higher than mine). The post below that is about passagio - mine is slightly above middle C. Then the post below that is voice range again, and it lists more voice ranges. Here it says contralto is the lowest female voice range, for women who can sing below E3. Ok, I can do that. So I wonder if maybe the same range just called tenor for men and contralto for women. But then I go listen to youtube and search for examples of contralto arias, and I hear women singing mostly above middle C. It sounds uncomfortable and not fun. Why is it all about the high notes? But then I think, maybe the issue is that contralto opera singers tend to mostly have "bright" voices and I have a "dark" voice, and I'm mistaking that for their voices being higher? My voice is like Nico from the Velvet Underground, or Ruby Helder, or Zarah Leander.

Honestly the difficulty of trying to memorize lyrics in a language I don't know is already pretty brain melting without having to wonder whether I'm an appropriate casting choice for that song. But, the whole point here being to sing opera, it would presumably be cheating if I sang something in English. :drunk:

[Almaviva]

Yeah - I had read that, actually, but it certainly doesn't hurt to look at it again. It shows the same contradiction I'm seeing elsewhere. In the picture showing the ranges on the keyboard, I'm clearly a tenor. But there isn't a picture there labeled contralto (or counter-tenor for that matter, their voices are definitely higher than mine). The post below that is about passagio - mine is slightly above middle C. Then the post below that is voice range again, and it lists more voice ranges. Here it says contralto is the lowest female voice range, for women who can sing below E3. Ok, I can do that. So I wonder if maybe the same range just called tenor for men and contralto for women. But then I go listen to youtube and search for examples of contralto arias, and I hear women singing mostly above middle C. It sounds uncomfortable and not fun. Why is it all about the high notes? But then I think, maybe the issue is that contralto opera singers tend to mostly have "bright" voices and I have a "dark" voice, and I'm mistaking that for their voices being higher? My voice is like Nico from the Velvet Underground, or Ruby Helder, or Zarah Leander.

Honestly the difficulty of trying to memorize lyrics in a language I don't know is already pretty brain melting without having to wonder whether I'm an appropriate casting choice for that song. But, the whole point here being to sing opera, it would presumably be cheating if I sang something in English. :drunk:

Yes, those posts contain some variation because there are typical ranges and extreme ranges. You can rather consider contralto the female equivalent of the countertenor range, typically from F3 to G5, with extremes going from just below E3 to B♭5. Some countertenors sing in a higher tessitura more equivalent to the soprano range and are called sopranists - most fall between contralto and soprano. But anyway, the contralto range does fall mostly above middle C, so that's why arias for contralto have that tessitura. Why is it about the high notes? Because the public seems to crave them, like some composers and singers have said. Female altos have a darker voice then a pure contralto so maybe that's what you are (it's rare). And about English, there is an extensive opera repertory in English, and since modern and contemporary opera has had a predominance of English-language libretti, the balance is shifting and English is becoming more and more an important operatic language.

Anyway, our real expert here is Schigolch so if anything I said above is not entirely correct, he'll be likely to see this at some point and make corrections if they are needed.

[sunandshadow]

I just figured that since none of the entries so far had English lyrics, that would be frowned upon, or seen as less cool.

[AnaMendoza]

I just figured that since none of the entries so far had English lyrics, that would be frowned upon, or seen as less cool.


I don't see why. We could just consider you a guest star from the English National Opera. They have fine singers, and everything's done in English.

[Anne of Green Gables]

Hello there

WHERE ARE MY RECORDINGS

[HarpsichordConcerto]

Hello there
WHERE ARE MY RECORDINGS

At home, in Avonlea.

[Amfortas]

We have missed your firm but gentle guiding hand, oh contest commander. But now, I'm sure, people will send in their submissions. I pledge mine within a week.

[Anne of Green Gables]

I pledge mine within a week.

ok

[Amfortas]

Oh damn, has it been a week (or more) already? Time flies.

I'll get to it. The logistics are not easy. For reasons I need not go into.