A series of 8 questions with mezzo-soprano, Emma Parkinson
What place were you born and where do you live now?
What is your favourite era/genre of music to perform?
Who are your musical influences and what do you love about their music?
EP Growing up, I was inspired by a lot of female R&B vocalists like Brandy, Mariah Carey and Destiny’s Child. I loved their ability to sing with such flexibility and fluidity in their voices, and I try to bring that same ease into my opera singing, especially when it involves lots of fast notes! I’ve also been very influenced by Dame Sarah Connolly, who is a fantastic British mezzo. She really immerses herself in the character she is portraying and it’s really inspiring to see.
Your favourite food (only one!)
EP This one was hard to pick just one! I love a good cheeseburger.
Your most memorable performance? Where were you and who were you performing with and why was it memorable?
EP My most memorable performance – it’s hard to pick just one, but one that comes to mind is a contemporary opera I recently performed in this past May, it was an incredibly difficult score, and maybe the hardest music I’ve had to memorize – and therefore very rewarding that we actually were able to perform it for an audience off book!
Something unique or unusual about you.
EP I love to cook and I’m an intermediate level salsa dancer!
How long have you been a performer?
What are you most looking forward to about performing with VIS this year?
EP I am most looking forward to performing in a new venue and as it’s my first time with the VIS, I’m excited to collaborate with all the wonderful musicians and share this glorious music with the audience!
