Online Music Guild Artist Spotlight: Taylor Gonzaga, Soprano
As the world shelters from these unprecedented times, The Online Music Guild is helping musicians from around the world to continue delivering their music. Join us in supporting musicians by enjoying this exclusive #StayHome Online Concert Series featuring handpicked musicians from around the world.
Soprano Taylor Gonzaga returns to this concert series to present her second performance on December 11 at 7 pm CST /8 pm EST. Taylor is extremely excited to present a program of holiday music ranging from Baroque oratorio to contemporary Christmas classics, featuring special guest guitarist and tenor Tanis Gonzaga. With a program that offers both classical and contemporary flavors, Taylor wishes to present a concert that will get anyone in the mood for the holiday season.
Taylor Gonzaga is currently a second year MM candidate in Vocal Performance at the University of Minnesota Duluth, where she serves as graduate assistant. Taylor earned her BA in Music Performance from the University of Portland, and has performed as an emerging artist with organizations such as the Miami Classical Music Festival, Halifax Opera Festival, and Music in the Marche, and gained her first professional credits with the former Mocks Crest Opera. Taylor is a multi time placeholder in competitions with NATS, Onstage NY, and the University of Portland. Favorite roles include Venere in L'egisto, Edith in Pirates of Penzance, Kate in Yeomen of the Guard, and Mrs. Pinkerton in The Old Maid and the Thief. When Taylor is not performing and learning, she teaches voice and music literature online in her own studio.
We spoke with Taylor ahead of her concert and here is what she had to share:
1. Could you give us a sneak peek of your upcoming program? What can audiences expect?
Yes! This concert is all Christmas music! It includes classical selections such as works from Bach’s Magnificat and Handels’ Messiah, but also popular contemporary carol arrangements sung in harmony with some of my special guests. I am so excited to make this concert a more collaborative virtual experience! We hope listening to it is like a warm blanket for our audience during this season.
2. You’re coming back to The Online Music Guild for your second concert! How was your first experience and what do you look forward to the most for this second performance?
Yes! I loved my first experience! It was so amazing to have a way to monetize my concerts during a difficult time for artists, as well as deliver beautiful art to the community. I pre recorded my concert, so I actually got to watch it with my audience and interact with people, which I really enjoyed. Luciano who runs the Guild has also been so supportive and kind, it’s such a wonderful opportunity especially for young artists to gain exposure and performance opportunities.
3. What is something positive that these quarantine months have allowed you to do as an artist?
I think the most positive thing is learning how to be more resourceful, and learning about how many creative ways opera can be delivered to the public. I just recently filmed a one act opera from my home for my grad program and I have also recently been named a finalist in the Minnesota NATS vocal competition after submitting all virtual content. I am learning how accept my voice more on film and learning how to film effectively, I think those are things that we can really take into the future as classical singers.
4. Who should tune in to your concert?
Anyone who loves Christmas music and enjoys seeing artists collaborate together! I work hard to create a community in my concerts that is enjoyable and embracing to everyone. Opera and oratorio lovers will enjoy the repertoire, and there is something in there for contemporary/mainstream music lovers too! The more the merrier!
5. What are some of your future artistic plans and where can people reach you?
I am finishing up my masters in vocal performance this year at University of Minnesota Duluth, in the spring I will be presenting my masters recital and will be performing the role of Gulietta in an abridged production of Tales of Hoffmann. When I graduate I hope to start my own company Opera Cecilia, showcasing the talents of emerging artists like myself. You can contact me via email at taylormgonzaga@gmail.com or follow me on Instagram: @gonzagatay.