Cincinnati Opera Debut
Kate Pinkerton
Madame Butterfly
How many times have you previously performed the role?
None.
If you have been to Cincinnati before, where is your favorite place to go?
Findlay Market.
What is your hometown?
Los Alamos, New Mexico.
Where do you currently reside?
Cincinnati, Ohio.
What are your community affiliations?
University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music.
What is your favorite opera and why?
Verdi's Otello. Verdi's mastery of the artform meets Shakespeare's keen power of observation and understanding of the human emotional landscape. It's an incredible synthesis of two geniuses' work. I decided I wanted to be an opera singer after coming across a recording of the Willow Song when I was about 14.
What is a favorite role you have sung and why?
Since I'm just getting started, I haven't performed many of the roles I hope to in the course of my career. My dream role would probably be Donna Elvira, because if played with dignity and grace, she has the potential to lend the story a powerful, emotional core. And, of course, you couldn't ask for more richly layered music.
Where did you make your professional debut?
Here and now!
Do you have professional recordings or DVDs?
Not yet!
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you during your career? The incomparable Marilyn Horne, with whom I have been privileged to work with at the Music Academy of the West, pronounces my last name "Whale-strom." I'm trying to keep that one from catching on.
Are there other jobs you have had in addition to singing?
As part of my work-study at CCM, I work for Performance Management. IF you come to an event over there, I just might hand you a program or direct you to the Box Office!
If you weren't an opera singer, what would be your dream job?
In college, I finished a B.A. in history as well as my music degree. For a time, I considered being a historian. I've found that the more I learn, the more connected everything becomes, so I'm grateful to have that background.
Do you sing other styles of music besides opera?
I love to sing the old standards. And let me tell you, going out to sing karaoke with a group of opera singers is a life-changing experience. (Don't tell my voice teacher!)
What are your hobbies?
Reading, classic movies, downhill skiing, hiking, and trying new recipes and types of cuisine.
What is your greatest achievement?
In the opera world, it's very easy to fall into the trap of constantly comparing yourself to the people around you. I've worked hard to teach myself that I can only measure my progress against my own potential, and that everyone's path is different.
What is something few people know about you?
I love to read classic science fiction. That must come from being a physicist's daughter!
