Delivering the Final High Note

By CrewMantle | Published: December 10, 2009

COMMANDOpera has observed over the years, that an audience goes most insane with cheers and applause when an artist finishes a dramatic aria on a high note (which is where the positive term ‘finishing on a high note’ is derived). However the lesson is not about the length a note itself is sustained or even if it is not of an ethereal quality, but rather the visual expression subsequent to the note itself. While any artist with an excellent technique who owns the note within their range, issuing the note is actually par for the course. We recognise a wise artist busy doing his/her job is focussed on bringing the listener into the drama, detached from any related emotion. When the job is accomplished, the audience on the other hand has descended into a state of extreme volatility. If an artist wishes to ascend to higher status with audiences, they must take their game directly to them at that moment. It should appear the final note is a challenge of historic proportions, and you are going in to do great battle. After the note is attained an artist should acknowledge to the audience they have won by throwing their head up in triumph for a few seconds, or hold the position until the curtain comes down. The head inclined upwards is the ultimate statement of pride of victory, and the audience will acclaim you as thus; victor/victoria victorious. Now, one can add their own personal touch, a weak smile, a bright glistening smile, or maintain a rigid hauter throughout the wild applause. Here are some examples;