Welcome to Con Fuoco, our series with emerging artists in Australia.
Jessica Taylor is an Australian soprano studying a Graduate Diploma in Music at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. She has previously completed a Graduate Certificate in Music Performance at Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, and a Bachelor of Music at the University of Queensland.
At QCGU, Jessica performed the role of Blanche from A Streetcar Named Desire in the Postgraduate Opera Scenes showcase, and Alice in scenes from Falstaff for the 50th Anniversary Gala. At UQ, she performed many lead roles in the Opera Scenes, including Violetta in La Traviata, Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni, and Rosalinde in Die Fledermaus. Jessica has also performed in concert with several ensembles including the University of Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Musica Antiqua Collegii, and given solo performances with the Badinerie Players, Armilla Quartet, Brisbane Mandolin Orchestra, and St Peters Symphony Orchestra.
In 2018 she, in conjunction with pianist George Unkovich, was awarded second place in the Melbourne Recital Centre’s Great Romantics Competition, and won the Royal Overseas League’s Artsong Prize. In October, Jessica will perform the title role in Massenet’s Cendrillon for WAAPA.
Your all-time favourite piece of music?
This week, it has to be a three-way tie between Puccini’s Manon Lescaut, the soundtrack for Muriel’s Wedding: The Musical, and Massenet’s Act III duet between Cinderella and the Prince in Cendrillon. It’s such a joy to sing, especially with my wonderful Prince, Ema Rose Gosnell. There’s something really special about two similar voices becoming one in expression of love and passion.
Biggest fear when performing?
Over time, I’ve realised that for me, performance anxiety is largely triggered if I feel under-prepared. If I’ve done my work behind the scenes, then I’m freed-up on stage.
Most memorable concert experience?
I’ve had plenty of special concert experiences myself, but I’ve got to say that seeing Joyce DiDonato sing Semiramide at Covent Garden last year was the most special concert I’ve attended. She is a phenomenal, committed artist, and such an inspiration for me.
How do you psych yourself up for practice on a lazy day?
I set practice times for the week ahead in my diary every Sunday, and I stick to them just like a would a class or a meeting. That way, it’s just an automatic thing, and I can also schedule myself days to be lazy, which is crucial for my sense of happiness.
Most embarrassing moment on stage?
Everyone has had mind-blanks or stumbles. But I try not to focus on them and, rather, to take a step back and the next day have a look at how to avoid letting them happen again.
Best piece of musical advice you’ve received?
To take stock at regular intervals of whether a musical career is making you fulfilled and happy – and, if not, what you can do to change it. I find that this helps me recommit to it with joy, and keep a check on my own wellbeing.
Favourite post-gig ritual?
A big glass of wine, a long shower, and plenty of sleep.
What are you most proud of in your musical career so far?
A few weeks ago, my friend and collaborator George Unkovich and I were lucky enough to win the Kantor Encouragement Award at the Melbourne Recital Centre’s Great Romantics Competition. Singing solo on that stage was a really amazing experience, and one I’d love to have again.
What do you love most about making music?
There’s a physical high that comes with singing properly that I can’t get enough of. Maybe it’s all the oxygen and endorphins going to your brain from the deep breathing and physical workout; or maybe part of it is the tension and release in that beat of silence before the applause, where you can really feel the audience connecting with the story you’re trying to tell.
Whatever it is, I’m always chasing the next one.
What’s your ultimate goal?
To create a sustainable portfolio career for myself filled with experiences and people that I love.
Jessica will perform as Cinderella in Cinderella on October 15, 17, and 19. More details and bookings through WAAPA.
READ NEXT: Did you read our Con Fuoco interview with fellow Cinderella Lucy Olivia Schneider?
Our Con Fuoco series has showcased emerging musicians in Australia since 2015.
This year, we’ve decided to team up with the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts so that we can shine the spotlight on those training for their performance careers in Perth.
Let’s celebrate emerging talent together!
Images supplied.
