Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Joseph.
Melissa, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Growing up, I was always surrounded by music. My father played in the church band, my mother was a singer in Haiti, both of my sisters played the violin and my God-father, who doubled as my pastor, was a former member of a famous Haitian group called Le Souffle Divin. My earliest memories are of me singing Haitian hymns in church when I was about 4 years old. I knew from an extremely young age that I wanted to be a singer and that my musical gifts were a unique attribute. Throughout school, I was always known as the girl who could sing.
All throughout elementary, middle and high school, I spent most of my time in rehearsals, choir concerts, singing sermonic solos at different churches and musical theatre performances. By the time senior year of high school rolled around, the only logical option was to pursue a music degree. Coming from two immigrant parents, however, the only logical options in their eyes were to pursue “safe” jobs like a doctor, nurse or lawyer. By God’s grace, I was awarded a full ride to Georgia State as a Music major and then returned to pursue my Master’s degree.
Seven years later, I’m really starting to see all of my hard work pay off. During my time at GSU, I met some of the most humble and driven artists who constantly poured into me and taught me everything I know about this opera business. My hope is that, as I progress in my career, that I always give back and pave a way for those young singers coming behind me.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey that I have traveled up to this point has definitely not been easy. By any means. It truly takes an amazing team to be successful. This team consists of a voice teacher, a coach, mentor(s) and a support system. Additionally, you need thick skin, the ability to function as your own CEO, PR Manager, Accountant and everything else in-between.
Aside from talent and work ethic, one must be willing to do all of the background work that it takes to build and maintain a successful brand. I struggled with this for a long time. Choosing my career is an everyday decision.
Every day I have to make decisions, both big and small, that impact my career. But I know that I will look back at this growing season and be so grateful for the time I spent in the trenches preparing myself for success.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am an opera singer. More specifically I am a lyric soprano. My specialties include operas, oratorios, and art songs.
As a solo artist, I am most proud of the awards and honors that I have received during my career. These include the Kristin Lewis Foundation Young Artist Award, Orchestra Noir International Virtuoso Concerto Competition 3rd place winner, and Top 10 Finalist in the Franco-American Vocal Academy (FAVA) Grand Concours Competition.
I think what sets me apart from others is my sensitivity in characterization. Aside from learning music, my favorite part of staging an opera is delving into the heart of the character, creating a backstory and truly bring her to life on stage.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I truthfully cannot take the credit for my success. I attribute all of my success, thus far, to God. He has given me this gift of music and the ability to emote and express ideas and feelings beyond words.
Through Him, I have had access to so many opportunities that lead to more work and more open doors. God has planted a passion and desire for music in me that transcends beyond the stage.
Contact Info:
- Website: melissajosephsings.com
- Email: melissadjoseph@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meli_joe/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melissajosephsoprano/
Image Credit:
Chris Triplett, Georgia State University
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