David Alexander Barnard

PIANIST • CONDUCTOR • OPERA

Tag: Opera

  • The Royal Society of Musicians.

    The Royal Society of Musicians.

    On Tuesday 14th March, I had the incredible opportunity to attend my first meeting of the Royal Society of Musicians of Great Britain, a moment I had eagerly anticipated. During this inspiring gathering, I not only received my membership certificate, marking my official investiture into the society, but I was also introduced to fellow musicians and passionate advocates for the arts. It is a huge honour to be part of such a prestigious organisation that has been dedicated to supporting musicians in need since 1738.

    I am truly excited about the connections that lie ahead, as I look forward to working alongside the society’s members to increase awareness and raise vital funds that will help provide assistance and opportunities for musicians facing financial hardships or challenges in their careers. Together, we can make a significant impact in the lives of those who contribute so much to our cultural landscape.

    The Royal Society of Musicians, the UK’s oldest music charity, is dedicated to offering crucial financial aid, advice, and guidance to music professionals unable to work due to accident, illness, stress, or anxiety. Founded in 1738 and run by musicians for musicians, we fully understand the unique struggles faced by music professionals and provide support, regardless of your role in the music industry.

    https://www.rsmgb.org/

    Amongst vocal and opera colleagues who have also recently joined the society are: Susan Bullock CBE, Richard Wiegold and Ralph Allwood MBE.

    As part of the evening, we heard from PhD candidate, Kate Wilkins who gave a fascinating talk on the history of women-only societies and the evolution and difficulties that they faced to sustain membership. There was significant delving into the archives of the RSM which was intriguing to listen to. I look forward to reading her final (and incredibly important!) paper very much.

    An in-depth historical account about the RSM can be read here: https://www.rsmgb.org/history

    Thanks to the faces old and new that I connected with on this very special evening.

  • Reviews: Cavalleria/Pagliacci

    Reviews: Cavalleria/Pagliacci

    1. Online Merker: https://onlinemerker.com/linz-landestheater-cavalleria-rusticana-i-pagliacci-premiere/

    “Choir and extra choir, also children’s and youth choir (conductors Elena Pierini and David Alexander Barnard) shine singly as well as a colorful and lustful performer troupe.

    Great enthusiasm, partly standing ovation, for leading roles, conductor, orchestra and choirs…”

    Online Merker 18.11.23

    2. Puls24.at : https://www.puls24.at/news/entertainment/linzer-publikum-begeistert-von-opern-doppelpack/313507

    As always, powerful and precise, the choir – extra choir as well as children’s and youth choir of the Landestheater (rehearsed by Elena Pierini and David Alexander Barnard).

    Pulse24

  • Austria!

    Austria!

    https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/david-takes-centre-stage-with-new-austrian-theatre-post-4217337

    By John Highfield PR

    Acclaimed Sheffield-based musician David Barnard is taking centre stage with a new post at one of Europe’s most celebrated theatres.

    David has been appointed assistant Chorus Director at the Landestheater in the Austrian city of Linz.

    The Landestheater – or State Theatre – is the largest theatre in Upper Austria, is made up of three major venues and is owned by the State of Upper Austria.

    David has been appointed assistant Chorus Director at the Landestheater in the Austrian city of Linz.

    “When I returned to Sheffield after a full decade of international work, I had no idea that I would so quickly be taking on such a great new role as the one that has been offered by the Landestheater,” said David.

    “Sheffield will continue to be my home base, particularly because it remains an interesting city to live in but much more of my time will be spent in the beautiful Austrian city of Linz.

    ​“Perhaps the Peak District will be temporarily swapped for the Alps, but I bet they don’t do a good pub Sunday roast!

    ​“The role is one I am highly experienced in, with previous chorus master contracts over the years around the world, but this particular appointment places me even more firmly at the heart of Europe’s classical music industry.”

  • Top Vocals

    Top Vocals

    Professor Janis Kelly FRCM, DRSAMD, will be coming to Sheffield in November to deliver a two-hour masterclass and a recital, as part of a three-day residency in the Steel City.

    On the 25th November at 7pm, Janis will workshop the five participants, including some of the best current singers from the Royal Northern College of Music, in a two-hour marathon on performance and vocal presence.

    On Sunday 27th November at 3pm, Janis will deliver a recital of Mozart, Schumann, Ravel and Burns, called ‘A Woman’s Face’ – the latter referring to the composition that Janis will perform, composed for her by Rufus Wainwright. It will be a Sheffield-first to hear this particular piece sung.

    Information on the masterclass can be found here, including venue and travel information. There are already five participants booked for the class, including the Australian Baritone, Adam Jon, who will be in the UK and Italy on an audition tour.

    Information and tickets for the Sunday recital can be found on Eventbrite – although, cash and card are always accepted on the door.