Often when you think of opera stars what spring to mind are (physically) larger than life characters such as Pavarotti, or robust Brünhildes in horned hats! But modern opera couldn’t be further from this image. In the past year we’ve seen daring new operas such as Anna Nicole and inspired re-settings of golden oldies such as The Elixir of Love. Opera stars too have been getting a makeover, and none come as handsome or as charismatic than Noah Stewart.
Originally from New Orleans, Stewart studied at Harlem School of the Arts before attending the renowned Julliard School in New York. He’s also performed as back up singer for Mariah Carey and Coolio. From humble backgrounds he has gone on to win a bevy of accolades and is now one of the most sought after tenors in the world.
Though often on stage he is also busy releasing his first album, Noah, later this month; a mixture of less than obvious opera arias, some good ol’ Italian crooning, and popular songs.
Noah Stewart will be back in London in March performing in the UK premier of Judith Weir’s new opera, Miss Fortune, at the Royal Opera House, but first he spoke to So So Gay…
SSG: What made you want to be an opera singer?
Stewart: My first taste of opera was not opera at all but the Verdi’s Requiem. That was the first time I discovered the voice of soprano, Leontyne Price. She was the first person of colour I heard sing with a full orchestra and chorus. I vowed from that day on that I would be the male version of what she represented.
Was there ever a moment when you realized that you were onto something big with your talent?
I entered my first voice competition when I was about 12 years old and won. That was the moment when my dreams of becoming a science engineer flew out the window. I also knew I would be successful whatever I did in life. Whenever I had bad days and doubted myself, I would ask mom if she thought I would be famous one day. She would always respond, ‘You already are.’
Are you happier in the studio or on the stage?
I’m happier performing on the stage. There’s nothing like feeling the connection with a live audience and musicians around me.
What opera role would you most like to perform?
I’d love to sing the lead in Verdi’s Otello in the future. I think he’s a fascinating character and I always loved Shakespeare’s original play. But I have a number of years ahead of me to sing more lyric roles, which are more appropriate for my voice.
Do you prefer singing opera or more popular songs?
I love all genres of music, as long as it’s good music. In choir, we sang all styles of music including musical theatre, jazz and classical. Being from New Orleans I grew up listening to jazz, R&B, and gospel. Pop music was also blaring from my sister’s room with such singers like Prince, Madonna, Sheila E., and Janet Jackson, who she idolized. My training is classical because I’d like to sing well into my 60s and my technique allows me to cross genres without strain.
What pop songs would you like to cover?
I’d like to take a stab at some Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, or Elton John. I’d also like to collaborate with Beyonce, Adele, or Gaga. The ladies truly owned 2011. But I think 2012 is us guys’ year.
What did you think of British food whilst you were in London?
I’m partial to my mom’s cooking as she is a great cook, being from New Orleans. I think the British palate is slightly different for Americans. But I’d never turn down a Sunday roast with all the trimmings, or a large glass of mulled wine.
Featured image: Courtesy of Decca/Universal Music.
Noah is released on 25 March 2012 and is available on Amazon UK. For more information about Noah Stewart, visit www.noahofficial.com. For information about Miss Fortune, visit www.roh.org.uk.
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