Chivalrous. Respected. Erudite. Wise.

Publicity and Photographs

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COMMANDOpera as an informational blog has a following not only among readers who enjoy the art form, but as one might expect, also of professionals from within. This article is directed to the younger artists who are beginning to establish their career, including those currently in the conservatoire. It also might be of benefice to artists who simply aren’t sure. The ones who are surrounded by a coterie of handlers, or sycophantic friends who only have agreeable things to say in the hopes of maintaining positioning close to a glittering centre. COMMANDOpera does not suffer from such considerations as I have no irons in the fire directly with any particular artist. Therefore what observant and trained eye I own in such matters is offered merely as an unbiased view regarding this noteworthy and critical issue.

When you have an audience, a public that looks to you the performer, there are expectations which simply cannot be disregarded. Fortunately, artists involved in opera and regardless of their status, are not subjected to the personal scrutiny reserved for those who work in the cinema. Thus, a greater and tighter degree of control can be held concerning  an artists image. Appreciating that you work in a ‘higher’ art form, your career trajectory is far better maintained and advanced when the tools utilized in your promotion reflect this fact. Publicity stills in particular when done properly can be your finest armament. When such critical photography is not used with the most careful eye to suitability of image, disaster can result.

There is a very definitive separation in this art form for what is acceptable in publicity photography which is decisively cut across the line of gender.

Imagery directed towards the female gender must incorporate glamour at every turn. This is an unalterable fact given the art form of opera is held in a uniquely specific regard within the minds of the audience. Regardless of the years which pass, opera will never lose it’s cache as the most elegant entertainment the public has the opportunity to enjoy (note; if you aspire to go out and be seen without fixing your face correctly at all times, that’s your choice and why large sunglasses were invented). Thus when you are in working mode, you are obliged to deliver to the public a visual which evokes for them a glance into a better plane. Incorporated as part of the imagery includes not only make up but also wardrobe and correct accessorising accorded to each photo. Find a top tier style with which you are comfortable and stick with it, utilising endless variations on a specific theme. For example, a wise female artist will find a trademark accessory such as hoop earrings, or chunky jewellery, and stay with it. Create a signature look.  Here is an example of a female artist who sets the standard.

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Miss Brueggergossman.

Imagery directed towards the male gender first and foremost must exemplify gravitas. As the centuries move forward, it seems what the public desires visually of male artists never changes. I must point out immediately, men who work in this profession must never fall prey to the blurring of lines regarding their work. As an individual who has resolved to make a career in music, you are behooved to note this fact as your top priority and act accordingly. You do not work in the fashion industry as models, nor are you expected to look like a matinee idol. If per chance you happen to own formidable chiseled features, all the better for you.  COMMANDOpera is crystal clear, your use of fashion must be limited in the extreme. This is the domain of female artists. Utilise well tailored garments at every turn for publicity, and keep the jewellery exponent to a minimum. If you wish to be taken seriously, you must attire yourself correctly to reflect yourself as a serious artist. Here is an example of a male artist who understands what to do.

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Mr. Fabiano.

COMMANDOpera cannot make determinations for artists who wish to be seen for who they are, unrestrained… All must know however, reputations in opera are built on airs of mystery created by the great operatic drama’s, which are subliminally levelled onto the artists themselves. The public does not wish to know you more then this regardless of the adulation you receive from your side of the floodlights. A cool discrete manner is the currency for your public persona and this simply will never change. Who you are in your private life is your domain on which COMMANDOpera would offer no judgement or interest.

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