There are many reasons why, but I believe nothing can make the hairs on your neck stand on end more than an emotionally charged aria, beautifully sung.
I believe that there is a touch of magic in a human voice which has been created and crafted to perform without the use of electric amplification and yet still allowing the listener to hear every word and note. To me, it is sheer beauty and brilliance.
When Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo and Jose Carreras came together 30 years ago on the evening of the 1990 FIFA World Cup Final, it mesmerized billions around the world (including me!). It brought a resurgence of interest in classical music and opera and created a pivotal moment proving that classical music could be enjoyed by everyone and was not just the domain of the elite. Indeed, the recording of the concert became the best selling classical album of all time.
A Classical or Opera Singer can create a wonderfully dramatic impact at any event as well as provide sophistication, elegance and style. Most singers can offer a range of songs from sacred, classical, operatic, operetta, film music, crossover, musical theatre and also contemporary, so there will be something for everyone.
IS A CLASSICAL SINGER RIGHT FOR MY EVENT?
A classical singer can be a great choice for many practical reasons.
Space shouldn't be a problem as many singers will either bring an accompanist (normally a pianist) or their own sound system and backing tracks, so set up is often quick, easy and can be accommodated by most venues. I would just suggest that you check that if the singer is performing with a pianist, whether they will bring their own keyboard or require the use of a tuned piano.
Most singers have a wide repertoire and will be able to tailor their performance to suit the venue, audience and occasion to ensure that your guests will be talking about the evening long afterwards.
HOW MUCH WILL A CLASSICAL SINGER COST TO BOOK?
Classically trained singers never stop practising (I know I don't) in order to develop their art and even internationally renowned opera singers still have lessons to maintain their voices and performances. It is for this reasons that many top flight and internationally experienceD singers charge premium rates.
However, there are many other exceptionally talented and versatile classical singers available, both locally, regionally and nationally who are more affordable. Some ballpark figures are listed below :-
Local semi-professional solo classical singer : *£150 - £300
Regional / National Professional solo classical singer : *£300 - £3000
International Professional Solo Singer : *£3000 upwards
*these figures are for guidance only - and will depend upon many factors including the event, venue, travel and length of performance.
HOW DO I FIND AND BOOK A CLASSICAL SINGER?
Perhaps the quickest way to find a performer is through the many entertainment agencies you can find on the internet. They offer you choices on location, price, availability and genre. However, be aware that you may be paying a premium for this service.
There are also other ways you can identify good quality singers through :-
Website search engines
Social Media such as Facebook / Linked In / Instagram (if you are looking to book a singer for a wedding there are many Facebook Groups that specialise in weddings, including wedding entertainment)
World of Mouth - ask around
Contact your local/ regional Operatic Societies or Music Colleges
Local Music or Theatre venues
Once you have drawn up a list of potential artists, a great way to shortlist them could be to ask for testimonials, look at their repertoire and more importantly listen to any recordings they may have. Almost all singers will have some audio / video recordings of themselves and the quality of their performances will shine through, no matter how basic the recording may be.
Once you have a shortlist, contact them directly to confirm prices and availability. You will then be well on the way to booking the perfect performer for your event.