Soprano Melody Moore is currently between shows at Washington National Opera, singing Freia in Das Rheingold and Ortlinde in Die Walküre until May 18th. After that, she hits the recital stage in Chicago with pianist Shannon McGinnis (May 20) and at New York’s Carnegie Hall with Robert Mollicone (May 25). Moore took the time to talk about some of the enviable roles she’s had the chance to perform, what’s left on her singing bucket list, and her “incredibly strong connection” with Puccini’s Tosca.

YOUR REPERTOIRE IS A MIX OF COVETED ROLES FROM TRADITIONAL OPERA, AS WELL AS NEW OPERA (THE PASSENGER, PRIMA DONNA, HEART OF A SOLDIER). DO YOU FIND ANY DIFFERENCES IN THE PROCESS OF REHEARSING AND PERFORMING NEW VERSUS TRADITIONAL WORKS?

The process of learning new roles is much different, mostly because there is little to no primary information or performance practice to study. Therefore, the learning happens at the piano or with a trusted coach with no previous information about the piece. No tempi from other conductors. No colors from other singers. Just the words and the music, and the music can be tonally difficult if it is newer. Newer music, not always, but often, does not just “fall” into the ear the same as a more traditional western harmony would.

Read the entire feature via Schmopera.