Rose Hegele, Soprano, on Her Artistic Background

In anticipation for the “Exploring Lyricism” Residency, Musaics AD Audrey Vardanega asks participating soprano Rose Hegele a few questions about her artistic background.

What inspired you to pursue a career as a vocalist?

In all honesty, the Spice Girls inspired me to pursue a vocal career! I remember singing along to their songs with my siblings and cousins, and putting on Spice Girls concerts for our extended family. When I was seven, I had my first professional gig singing "Amazing Grace" with the Fraser River Fiddlers, which quickly inspired me to take voice lessons. Throughout my youth, I sang in choirs, musicals and operas, and eventually found my home in new music in college. What I love about singing is how unique it is to each person, the sensation of conjuring sound with my full body, and how it integrates my mind, body and spirit.

How does collaboration with other artists challenge and grow your craft?

Collaboration is one of my favorite aspects of being a musician. It allows me space to experiment with others and explore new modalities for vocal expression in diverse musical settings-- from voice, clarinet and cello trios to a full chorus and orchestra. My colleagues have encouraged me to traverse the full range of my voice: embracing my straight tone, Billie Eilish-pop technique, extended vocal techniques, and my operatic training. I appreciate how collaboration facilitates creative problem solving, direct communication, and taking on different roles to support the process, both musical and administrative.

What are your goals for the Musaics Residency Program?

I hope that this residency will inspire me to explore different facets of my artistry, and I am especially excited to attend the discussion on Composing for Your Own Instrument. I also look forward to being in community with the wonderful composers, performers, and visual artists.