BAROQUE PASSION WITH RACHELLE DURKIN
Soprano superstar Rachelle Durkin reflects on her passion for Baroque music ahead of performing with Australian Baroque in Un Bellissimo Fuoco.
What is the central theme of Un Bellissimo Fuoco?
Un Bellissimo Fuoco translates to 'A beautiful fire'. Over the years I have been very fortunate to portray strong, passionate, fiery female roles on the stage. Of those, I think I’ve enjoyed singing the queens in Handel’s operas the most.
Handel’s sublime music with its difficult coloratura passages and expressive phrasing is perfectly written to convey the strength and vulnerability (fire and beauty) of these women.
As an ensemble, what do you enjoy most about collaborating with Australian Baroque?
I worked with Australian Baroque a few years ago upon my return from New York. They are not only professional, friendly and musically adept, but you can tell everyone takes pleasure in the music making. That to me is what’s enjoyable about performing with Australian Baroque. It’s also a wonderful experience singing with period instruments which is a rarity.
You recently won an award for your performance in West Australian Opera’s La bohème (2023). How does learning Baroque repertoire differ from learning other opera styles?
What a joy it was in receiving that award. La bohème was such a wonderful show to be a part of for WAO.
Ultimately I believe in using the same vocal technique for everything that I sing, however there is less abandon in Baroque music in say Bel Canto or Verismo music. There is a level of simplicity but also precision that is needed, such as ornamentations, trills and appoggiaturas specific to Baroque style. Straight tone is also often a requirement in baroque music and used to great effect. I love discovering new ornamentations, dissonances and vocal colours in Baroque music.
Do you have a favourite Baroque opera, and if so, why?
It’s difficult for me to choose a favourite Baroque opera, however, because I have learned two new arias from Handel’s opera Rodelinda for this concert, it seems to be my obsession at the moment.
What are you most excited for audiences to experience at Un Bellissimo Fuoco?
Simply, an evening of beautiful music. However, it’s my hope to take the audience on an imaginative and emotional journey with us. Baroque music alone is transformative but as artists it’s our aim to create an atmosphere whereby the audience is moved, surprised, changed. I have confidence that our program next week may do just that.
West Australian Opera and Australian Baroque present Un Bellissimo Fuoco at Hackett Hall on Thursday 29 August. Book here.
