Opera students bring something special to the choral conductor: a deeper interestin dramatic values in a piece of music. Their instinct for the dynamics of language and emotion puts them in a more inquiring state of mind for things vocal. Their sound will add a special dimension to a chorus. They are easily offended and disoriented when asked to sing in a manner different from their applied lessons. However, if the choral director is very conversant in vocal matters and can demonstrate a desired performance practice, the opera student will respect musical instruction and enjoy the chorus. The choral director need not be reminded that every voice teacher would like to turn out the next big star in the opera world firmament.
Why do many students want to sing loudly!? They are taught to sing loudly enough to be heard in the back row of seats. Voice students have private lessons in a studio and may not realize that the choral rehearsal room, being much larger, will not give the same feedback for the same input. They then have a tendency to sing louder without realizing so.
What can the choral director do? Compliment the student on his technique and quality of voice. Offer one-on-one discussion of the choral art. Record rehearsals; playback reveals more than the director can verbalize.
The choral conductor cannot say such, but the student of opera will learn many musical nuances in chorus not encountered in opera.
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