Interview with the soprano Gemma Summerfield, winner of the First Grand Prize in 2022.
1. How did your passion for music begin? When did you realize that you wanted to become an opera singer?
I’ve always loved singing – my mother would tell you I was singing before I could talk – and started singing lessons quite young, but whilst I sang in choirs throughout my school years, I didn’t have my first experience of Opera until I went to music college. I found my love of Opera through singing it rather than watching it and the more sing, the more I want to discover!
2. Why did you decide to participate in the Tenor Viñas Competition?
I decided to participate in the Tenor Viñas Competition because of the incredible panel of professionals it assembles from throughout the industry and around the world, and the beautiful theatre that it offers the opportunity to perform in. I will never forget setting foot on the stage of the Liceu for the first time.
3. How do you value your overall experience at the competition? Did you imagine you could make it to the grand final?
The help of the staff and my wonderful pianist Soojeong Joo made for a calm process (as calm as a competition can be!). I’m very grateful for such smooth running of the competition, which really allowed me to focus on my singing. I had prepared myself well to make it to the final, but I never take anything for granted – of course I was delighted when I did, but then I had to quickly refocus again!
4. What was the moment of the contest that you remember most affectionately?
The warmth of a full audience in the Liceu after Covid was a really great feeling for me. To walk onto a stage and be greeted by a human response, and to be able to offer something in person to others, after to such a long period of singing alone and to no one was incredibly rewarding.
5. What has winning the first prize meant for your career?
For me, applying to a competition of this high standing is a chance to prove my reputation amongst my peers. In winning First Prize I have shown my abilities on an international stage and this is opening doors for me throughout Europe and beyond.
6. How has the aftermath of the competition been? In which projects have you been involved?
I have continued to work hard and show that I am a consistent performer across the board in Opera, Concert Performances and Song, working in the UK and Europe. As I write this I am preparing to make my debut at Staatsoper Hamburg.
7. What tips would you give to a singer who wants to participate in the Tenor Viñas Competition?
Go for it - but go prepared! When the platform is so revered, all participants will be of a extremely high artistic level. But doesn’t that make for the most excitement?
8. What do you think are the most important things to consider when participating in a competition like this?
For me, it’s important to surround yourself with a team you trust and who know you and your voice. Along with my team, I select repertoire and opportunities that fit me well, and I am careful not to take on anything that doesn’t feel right at that moment. The Tenor Viñas Competition was the right fit for me in the year that I did it. Repertoire choice is very important in my opinion and I select it carefully so that I don’t sing beyond my capability but so that I challenge myself a little. I also select it for its variety in programming through the rounds.
9. What projects are you currently working on?
I have several opera projects coming up in Germany and France and some exciting concert work back at home in the UK. I’ve also just finished a recording with the Bergen Philharmonic and Sir Mark Elder which should be released within the next year.
10. What would be your dream to fulfill in the opera world?
My dream for my career is to be surrounded by people who care as much for creating art as I do, both on stage and backstage. As long as I am performing at a high artistic level and collaborating with people who have the same drive as me, I will be living my dream.