High Notes and Anecdotes

Episode 26 - Hi friends! Don't miss Helena and Adam's fascinating chat with the brilliant conductor, Ben Northey. He tells stories from his jam-packed life on podiums around the world, including that now-famous mallet catch, how opera is its own glorious chaos and why great conducting is really about connecting people, not just waving arms. We chat about mentoring, bringing Indigenous voices to the orchestral stage, managing an insane schedule and little rehearsal tricks that actually work. It’s warm, funny and full of behind-the-scenes gold. Tune in if you love music, want to understand what a conductor really does, or just want a brilliant, honest conversation with someone who’s living at full tilt.

Episode 25 - Hey friends! We're back for Season 2! Join Helena and Adam as they kick off the new season with the fabulous actor, director and producer, Melanie Hillman. They chat about Mel's new Sondheim revue, Colour and Light, and the joys of reworking classics. It’s full of rehearsal gossip, pandemic-era logistics and important takes on casting and representation. It's witty and nerdy in the best way - perfect for anyone who loves theatre, Sondheim or a good backstage story.

Episode 24 - Hey there, friends! Grab a comfy spot because it's the Season 1 Finale and we've got a whirlwind of opera shenanigans waiting for you. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of laughs and a lot of high notes, literally! This time, we’ve pitted tenor against tenor in a game show format! It's the brilliant Henry Choo, the hilarious Mark Cunningham and the amazing Christopher Turner in a head-to-head operatic showdown. We've got custom buzzers, impromptu jams and some cheeky confessions. From barns to unexpected onstage nudity, our talented tenors spill all the tea. And yes, there’s a chat on eating pizza! It's definitely an episode packed with moments you won't want to miss. Listen in and we'll be back with Season 2 in September!

Episode 23 - Hey there! This episode is an absolute delight as we sit down with the brilliant Adrian Tamburini. From his journey across opera stages to starring as Hades in 'Hadestown' in Australia, Adrian opens up about his diverse career and love for music. You'll hear about his unique voice journey, shaping roles and how he connects with audiences. Adrian shares the challenges of an eight-show week, his magical moments on stage and he wades in on the great pizza cutlery debate. As a gifted mentor, he also talks about the art of teaching and the transformative power of singing. It's personal, fun and certain to leave you inspired! Don't miss out on this musical adventure!

Episode 22 - Hi friends! Wow, do we have an episode for you! With just 2 more episode to go in season 1, Adam and Helena chat about her epic 22-year adventure in the UK, filled with thrilling opera performances, quirky accommodation tales and a citizenship ceremony! In this special installment, Helena shares her announcement about moving back to Australia and what it means for her career and personal life. We reminisce about our days at the Royal Academy of Music, share laughs over Helena's move into the 'noisy building', and delve into what it’s like packing up over two decades of life abroad. So, come join the chat, as Helena and Adam laugh, reflect, and navigate the rollercoaster that is an artist's life.

Episode 21 - Hey there, friends! Dive into this episode where we chat with the fascinating and inspiring Sharon Kempton, a renowned Australian opera singer and performance coach now based in Germany. We discuss Sharon's incredible journey from Australia to the vibrant opera scene in Germany and Sharon shares her unique approach to mindset coaching as she helps performers and other professionals overcome barriers to reach new heights in their careers. Her stories are not only motivational but offer valuable insights for anyone looking to enhance their skills and self-confidence. Curious about what it takes to thrive in the opera world and beyond with the right mindset? Tune in to find loads of laughs, lessons and lovely conversations!

Episode 20 - Hey there, friends! We're thrilled to have you join us in this fun and thought-provoking episode. We've got a special guest, Theresa Borg, who's a powerhouse in Australia's performing arts scene. Theresa wears many hats as a director, writer, artistic director and performer, and she’s here to share some fascinating insights with us. This episode is loaded with laughter and some seriously interesting discussions about opera, theatre and Theresa’s journey. We even dabble in the absurdity of certain operatic storylines and ponder how to inject a bit more fun and logic into them. So, if you're curious about the magic behind the curtain, the secrets of standing still while singing or how to seamlessly integrate orcs and ukuleles into a performance, you've come to the right place. Hit play and let’s get started!

Episode 19 - Hey there, friends! Ready for a fascinating episode about vocal health? Join us as we chat with the multi-talented Samantha U'Ren, a speech pathologist with an opera singing background. Samantha shares her unique insights into vocal health, diving deep into her journey from singing to speech pathology and the important lessons learned along the way. Discover why your voice can lead you to incredible opportunities or unexpected situations, like Helena’s high-note escape from a tricky scenario! Learn about the realities of using corticosteroids for vocal issues, the importance of getting your voice checked by professionals and what exercises are good look after your vocal cords. You'll hear personal stories, tips, and plenty of laughs in this episode that's not only informative but fun! Whether you’re a singer, teacher or just a lover of good stories, you’re guaranteed to learn something new. So grab your favourite drink, get comfy and listen in.

Episode 18 - Hi friends! You're in for a real laugh in this episode, featuring the incredible mezzo-soprano Jamie Barton. Helena, Adam and Jamie dive into some seriously delightful mischief, including rubber ducks, questionable drawing skills, and garlic noodles. It's a cocktail of high notes, high jinks and heartwarming stories that will leave you smiling. Whether you're an opera aficionado or just someone who loves a good laugh, this episode has it all. From memories at the Met to designing the ultimate Jamie Barton dinner party, the banter is irresistibly charming. Trust me, you won't want to miss a second! 🎶🐤❤️

Episode 17 - Hey there! Join Helena, our mischievous operatic soprano, and Adam, our former opera singer turned producer, as they dive into the world of live performance where the show must always go on. In this episode, they tackle the art of staying in the moment amidst life's chaos and share candid stories about the unpredictable nature of live music, from giggle-inducing audience interactions to tales of personal resilience. Whether you're in the industry or just adore the vibrant world of opera, there's something here for you. So, grab your favourite snack and tune in for a mix of real conversation and lots of laughs!

Episode 16 - Hey there! So, Helena is currently in the vibrant heart of Madrid, living her best opera singer life. Imagine waking up to views of the Royal Palace and diving headfirst into Spain's unique and bustling culture. It's been quite the experience between her having multilingual convos, sampling local foods and learning new music, all while navigating rehearsals that stretch well into the night. Listen in to hear all about her journey so far!

Episode 15 - Hey there! We're back with another fun episode from Helena Dix, international opera singer known for singing spectacular high notes and Adam Miller, former opera singer known for getting stuck in trees while singing high notes. Today they chat about the challenges of staying motivated amid life's chaos. Join us for a cozy conversation sprinkled with laughs, stories of resilience, and perhaps a few tips on overcoming those tempting Netflix marathons. Whether you're an opera fan or just in need of a motivational boost, this episode will leave you smiling.

Episode 14 - Hi there, friends! 🎶 Welcome back to our operatic meandering chats. This episode continues the fascinating conversation with Sarah Playfair, legendary British casting director, who has lent her Midas touch to nearly every major opera institution in the UK. She shares tales of her journey from being a dresser for the iconic Sir Ian McKellen to the world of opera casting. Her stories about casting debates and backstage opera secrets are sure to keep you glued to your favourite podcast app! So grab a cup of tea (or a piece of pizza, knife and fork optional 😉) and settle in for an episode filled with warmth, laughter, and a treasure trove of insights. 

Episode 13 - Hey there! Get cozy because you're in for a treat today. We're diving into an incredibly funny and fascinating episode featuring Sarah Playfair, legendary British opera casting director. Her stories from decades in the industry are simply captivating. Join us as Helena Dix, globetrotting operatic soprano, and Adam Miller, opera singer turned producer, writer, and director, chat with Sarah about her remarkable experiences. From working on Kenneth Branagh's 'The Magic Flute' to her thoughts on the importance of a singer's online presence in today's digital age, it's a deep dive into the heart of casting. You'll hear surprising audition tales, her perspectives on the industry's evolution, and what it really takes to stand out. So, if you're curious about the behind-the-scenes magic of opera casting, this episode is definitely for you!

Episode 12 - Hey there! Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of opera with Helena Dix and Adam Miller. In this episode, we explore the unpredictable journey of staying healthy as a performer – and yes, we even talk about mismatched socks and bizarre pre-show rituals! From the funny to the slightly weird, this episode has it all. Plus, find out what it's like when your career is your greatest passion, and health becomes your biggest challenge. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a peek behind the curtain of an opera singer's life. Enjoy!

Episode 11 - Hey there! Join Helena Dix and Adam Miller in this fascinating episode as they share stories and unique perspectives from the world of opera. Today they discuss their experiences navigating the tightrope of competitions and the often daunting world of criticism. It’s a candid chat about the art of resilience, adorned with nostalgia and laughter. Get an insider's look at what it was like for Helena to perform in international competitions, including some eyebrow-raising adjudicator encounters. A must-listen for anyone curious about the world of competitive music making. Enjoy!

Episode 10 - Hey there! Dive into an episode bursting with laughter and fascinating stories as Helena Dix and Adam Miller sit down with the vibrant Mexican tenor, Eleazar Rodriguez. Renowned for his exciting portrayals across the globe, Eleazar shares tales from backstage chaos, his journey from the home of nachos to opera stages, and his rise to social media fame. Discover what really happens during opera jump-ins and get ready to giggle at some of his funniest stage moments. It's a candid, insightful and feel-good chat you won't want to miss!

Episode 9 - Hey friends! Welcome back to another fun-filled episode of laughter, high notes, and insightful conversations! 🎶 Today, we're thrilled to chat with Irish director, author, podcaster and educator Conor Hanratty. Conor, renowned for his interdisciplinary approach to directing opera and theatre, takes us on a journey from his work in Ireland to the global stage. We delve into his inspirations drawn from studying under renowned director Ninagawa Yukio in Japan and what it means to balance the cosmic mystery of Mercury in retrograde with a harmonious life in the theatrical world. Whether you're an opera aficionado, a Shakespeare enthusiast, or just tuning in for the banter, sit back and enjoy the magic of storytelling and the passion that goes into creating breathtaking performances.

Episode 8 - Hey there! Welcome back, friends! In this episode, we dive into a fascinating conversation with Dr. Trevor Jones, a multi-talented force of nature in the music world. Known for his work as a conductor, pianist, singer and educator, Trevor shares insights about his diverse career and his journey across various musical genres. He's got a reputation for his engaging performances and collaborations, and he's here to discuss everything from conducting to the beautiful, blurry lines between opera and musical theatre. The chat is filled with laughter, stories, and some tales of forgotten lyrics. So, if you're curious about how to balance a multi-talented career in music, or if you're just up for some great stories and laughs, you're in for a treat. Enjoy the episode!

Episode 7 - Hey there! Adam and Helena are back, sharing stories from opera stages to kitchens around the world. Join them for a flavour-filled chat, as they explore everything from bacon-infused beverages to the perfect slice of pizza in Milan. Ready to get hungry? Grab your knife and fork—preferably not for pizza—and enjoy!