Martha Eason has a lot to say to young American singers and you will be able to find it soon, right here on OperGermany. 38 years after I made my way to Germany, it’s wonderful to see that even after the Covid pandemic, a singer can find a life and make a career in a system which treasures opera as a living art form. She loves the life in Germany and her career is a great example. She didn’t grow up anywhere near opera, but found her way to a good voice teacher, a good school, and young artist programs…but a real solo career opened up for her in Germany.
After six seasons in Oldenburg (a true “Familientheater”: small theatre but with a dedicated audience and a tradition of musical excellence) she has now transitioned to a fest contract in Karlsruhe along with the Intendant from Oldenburg, where she’ll get to do new repertoire as well as reprise roles she has already performed. Martha has that combination of talent, intelligence and common sense that can prosper and grow in the right environment. And boy is she making the most of it! She also has her own business entity in offering help to other singers who want begin a career in Germany. Her suggestions are current, so if you’re interested in making a life in opera, listen to what she has to say! (www.operacareerguide.com)
There’s a lot to unpack in this upcoming interview. As always, this career path involves a lot of luck, but you’ll hear in the interview that Martha took advantage of her luck. She learned the obvious things like the language and lots of music, but she also learned other critical business skills. She learned how to get along with her singing colleagues and the administrators while at the same time, being able to advocate for herself as a singer and an artist while remaining a valuable part of a theater. There’s a practical side of theatrical life which is also important, such as understanding the ins and outs of the tax system, unemployment, visas and residency/work permits. She has a real grip on all this and has much to say. The interview will be published soon, so stay tuned!