Veteran Chinese opera singer to perform in city

Renowned Western opera soprano Huang Ying returns to her hometown and will present a curated selection of French and Chinese art songs Opera House, playing the role of Princess Pamina in The Magic Flute.

“Taking a bow amid the thundering applause of 4,000 people — that experience was just overwhelming,” she recalled. “It was the moment of a lifetime.”

The sense of accomplishment she derived from her exploits on stage can now be found in seeing her students perform and winning awards.

“I feel fulfilled to be able to do my part in cultivating a new generation of Chinese vocal artists,” she said.

When asked about her advice for Chinese vocal students aspiring to forge a career on the international stage, Huang said it was grit and determination, as well as a firm grasp of different foreign languages, that has gotten her where she is today.

“Being a vocal artist is a long and difficult pilgrim’s route and it takes 10 years of hard training to gain one minute in the limelight,” she said.

“But I feel that the hardship has paid off. I now enjoy every minute on the stage. It is also important to learn multiple languages, as many of the pieces are in Italian and German,” she added.

I consider myself a cultural ambassador between Chinese and Western cultures. I hope to present what I have learned abroad to my audiences at home.”

PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY Huang Ying, the acclaimed Chinese soprano, will present a concert in her hometown of Shanghai next month.