In celebration of my first full year of living in New York City.....I am reposting these postings that covered the details of those first two months. Enjoy! My most current posts are available in the achieves and previous post section....just click to read. Be well
Life and Living
It has been busy...busy...busy. Everything in 
e restaurants in the area. There really hasn't been any time or opportunity for actually buying groceries and cooking meals regularly. And so I vacillate between Chinese (shrimp with broccoli), Jamaican (jerk chicken and plantain), Italian (a slice of pizza), or Soul Food (fried whiting). The cost is anywhere from $3-9....the portions are substantial....and I can sometimes get..."tomorrows lunch from today's dinner".
The Opera Experience
Prelude to Performance is the opera training program of the Martina Arroyo Foundation. It is truly a blessing and an honor to be here. There are nearly 40 singers in the program....and it is truly a reflection of the internationalism....multiculturalism....and diversity found in the world of opera. We are Korean, Cuban, Canadian, Chinese, African American, Japanese, Euro-American, and so much more.....we are grad students, undergraduates, working professionals, emerging professionals and again....so much more. There is a wealth of talent.....great voices.....and nice people....the environment is very collegial. The instruction here is passionate, careful, exacting....and at the highest level I've experienced hitherto in my career. The schedule is 10-6 Mon-Fri. The week has been filled with a steady rotation of 1.5 -3 hour sessions in Libretto Study, Roll Preparation, Italian Language, Musical Review, and Individual Coaching. On Monday we will add 2-4 hours of Staging to that rotation. Summer performances of Prelude to Performance begin this weekend. Click here for the entire schedule.
The Leporello
My Leporello is "a work in progress". Over the years, I have worked hard to be known as a singer/artist/musician who shows up fully prepared for rehearsals.....whether it is for opera, oratorio, or my own church choir. Due to some unavoidable circumstances and challenges, I cannot boast in my 'advance preparation and readiness' for this program. But it is coming together....bit by bit. And I should add....the Leporello is a HUGE role...perhaps even having more material than the title character Don Giovanni!!
Walking the Walk
I have been told that 20 city blocks is equivalent of a mile. One can easily walk a mile a day living in NYC. During my first week it was typical for me to walk from 145 down to 
On my Way to Broadway.
First of all.....Phantom of the Opera is NOT an opera....it is a Broadway Musical....I am not here to 'do Broadway'....I am here to opera.....(a completely different aesthetic.....like apples and oranges).....however......I am quite sure that the time will come when I will on day be here to 'do Broadway'. This week I was treated to 2 Broadway shows....The Color Purple and Sweeny Todd. Both were outstanding. But....let me just say that....I am now more than ever.....I am convinced and determined that.....COLORS: Brothers Beneath the Skin has something very unique to offer and needs to be mounted on a world-class stage. "You shall see it."....mark my words.
The Puerto Rican Day Parade
Last week Sunday was the Puerto Rican Day Parade.....and boy....what sights and sounds. I have no intention of going to the event.....as I had a 3pm orientation meeting at the Liederkranz...but I ended up going my defacto because there were so many thousands of people there on
Central Park
Central Park may be 'dangerous' at night....but during the day it is virtual panoply of recreational delights.....I have to cross through the park each day to and from rehearsal. It is truly an oasis....and escape from the miles of city concrete...the throngs of meandering tourist... and the blaring horns of passing cars....and it’s a good place to sit on a park bench and study my music!
Well that is about all for now......there is much to do today.....hope you enjoy the photos. Click here to see more.
Please feel free to send mail to:
Darnell Ishmel
C/O Rod Gailes
746 St. Nicholas #72
My email is: darnell.ishmel@gmail.com
Be well,
Darnell
Epsilon Brotherhood Brunch in NYC
There is such a richness, diversity and excellence to be found in fraternity in Alpha Phi Alpha. Ryan is an entreprenuer in business and finance, Rod is a noted flimmaker, his sands Myles is a VP at American Express, Clarence is completing a doctoral degree in Engineering at Georgia Tech, Abdul is completing law school at Howard Univ., I am an aspiring opera singer, and my sands Ron is a Dean of Students at Marymount Manhattan College. Since we all were going to be in the New York City area this summer.....it seemed fitting that we should come together...exchange greetings.....break bread......and make a new memory.
We decided to meet at Maroons....a quaint jamaican - soul food resturant in the Chelsea district. The atmosphere was chic....the service was attentive....the food was great....(I had the whiting and grits....which were both out of this world....)....but the portions all around were remarkably skimpy.....and in THAT we were all disappointed. But the fellowship....the sharing of stories....aspirations....and affirmations....was priceless.
From Brazilian to Ecudorian to Puerto Rican to Senegalisse......the neighborhood is virtually an international delicatessen....and food is pretty much available 24/7.....I tend to be a creature of habit.....when I find something that I like....I will stick to it...until I get sick of it....Famous Fish has the BEST fried fish in Harlem.....great taste...great portions...and decent service....a true 'hole in the wall'.....or should I say....hole in the earth.....it is a subterranian grease hut....and at the lunch and dinner hour.....dozens of us urban ghetto dwellers line the side walk to get in the door and place an order. In all my years of coming to Famous Fish....I never disappointed. But I have now grown tired of it. I havent yet tried any of the more exotic flavors of the ethnic spectrum.....I am sure to get around to it at some point....but I think I am really just in the mode for some good ol' fruits and veggies right about now.
Same thing with Fatman Flavor.....the food is great....the jerk chicken is REALLY spicey.....it is baked.....I prefer grilled...the curry chicken and rice and peas was descent....but....I can tell that Fatman doesn't use coconut milk.....(coconut!....THAT is the real secret to making those dishes taste as good as it did when I had it years ago while doing a study abroad at the University of West Indies in Kingston .) The escovitch fish and plantain is great....but....unfortunately for them.....I have grown tired of the Fatmans Flavor.A Typical Morning
Here you can see the view from the living room of Rod's apartment. Each morning has me up by 6:30 am....(although the sun faithfully begins its ascent through the eastern sky around 4:45 am each morning.....trully the 'crack of dawn'.
After some morning meditation.....a bit of retrospection...and some rather methodical contemplation about the many and several tasks needing to be accomplished on a given day......I wash up......get dressed.....gather up my music....my lunch...my sunglasses and baseball cap....and head out around 8:30 am.I have taken to the habit of walking from 147th street down to 86th.
The trek includes a cross through Central Park........there are always plenty of sights and sounds....whether walking through the busy thoroughfares of the bustling city.....or hiking through the placid and sceren groves of Central Park.....there is seldom an uninspired moment.
New York City: Population - 8.2 Million
With so many people trapsing through the city I find it incredible that I can be walking down a crowded city street.....and happen upon a familiar face from my past. Twice now this has happened. Shawn Mason was a student at the University of Michigan, an Alpha Angel, and sang in the U of M Gospel Choir (which I conducted in the early 90's). My sands Ron and I had just finished brunch.....took the train with Rod and his sands Myles down to Nick Jr. located in the Viacom Building at Time Square....(that is where Rod works). In any case....me and my sands were standing in front of the building....people watching.....while waiting for Rod and Myles to come out. My sands spotted her in the sea of pedestrians....and said...."she looks familiar.....she looks like.....uh....Shawn Mason from U of M". And up walks this pettit brownskin wide-eyed women......and with that curious...."don't I know you" kind of look....she said....."Darnell Ishmel!.....from gospel choir" "I was an unbelivable reunion. As it happens....she was in NYC from Baltimore for one day only....sight seeing with her family.
A few days later Rod and I went for pizza in the Village. (Can't remember the name of the place....but I remember going there on some of my visits when Rod was a film student at NYU). It was night.....nearly midnight..... we were crossing....and just as I was about to step up upon the crub...I almost literally ran directly into this youthfull brownskin guy.....who immediately reacts to the near coliasion with...."Mr. Ishmel!" It was Umibem Nilampti.....one of my favorite students from the Piney Woods School. Umi (a rather unique complilation of rebel and intellectual)....was class president during my first year of teaching at "the Woods"....(his senior year). Because of his politics.....many the school administrators didn't want him to be a delegate on our trip to Dakar, Senegal to attend the 3rd African - African American Summit. Most of the administration saw Umi as too afrocentric....confused....militant...disrepectfull.....as a threat. And to some degree....yes....he was indeed all those things and more. Understandable.....they did not want to reward his outspoken behavior by sending him on a trip to the Motherland. But I saw Umi was a scholar....an academician.....and a born leader.....at an early age he evidenced a genuine quest for knowledge....a remarkable sense of conciousness and a saged wisdom beyond his years. And because of these attributes....he had my full support. Umi would travel as a Piney Woods ambassador....school spokesman....and cameraman for the Piney Woods Quartet. Since his highschool graduation in 1995.....Umi has went on to complete a master degree.....has traveled the world...and has become something of a mogel in the Hip-Hop and the urban concious thought movement....and he continues to work with many of the top names in the industry. Until the other night....we had not spoken in over 10 years! another remarkable reunion.
Wrap UpWell....I guess it's time for a wrap up. As for the opera.....there is still a significant amount of music to learn....but all is coming along well. We started staging for the Don Giovanni last week Monday. I still need to memorize the Sextet. and first Act Finale....the final Commendatore scene recit...and I need to learn AND memorize the Act 2 Finale. Like I said....still a significant amount. But everything else is pretty much memorized. I am called for rehearsal everyday next week.....so it will be a VERY busy week.
Next week I will take more photos.....and will be sure to get some from our rehearsals....until the next time.
Please feel free to send mail to:
Darnell Ishmel
C/O Rod Gailes
746 St. Nicholas #72
My email is: darnell.ishmel@gmail.com
Be well,
Darnell
Random Photos Below
Walking up 145th and Broadway
A Typical Jamaican Breakfast....Codfish, Plantain, and Dumplings
Walking through the neighborhood and happend upon a Little League Team in Harlem
Week 3
This was a tough week....very tough. This Leporello is big. In terms of the amount of music, recitatives, and stage time.....it is certainly the biggest role I have done. I had no idea how big. As most of you know.....I was something of a "late invitee" to this program. And then......two weeks before the start of the program....my mother fell gravely ill. With me ripping and running back and forth from When I arrived for the first rehearsal on June 12th...very little was memorized.....and there was still 40-50% that I hadn't even sung through. So....I have had to REALLY play catch up here. I haven't been in this type of situation since sing my very first Italian opera at U of M...La Cenerentola by Rossini....conducted by Martin Katz.
I didn't know then how much my life in opera would be influenced by that experience. Anyone who has ever worked with Martin Katz would surely appreciate my description of the experience as "intense....unique.....and magical"." (To this day, I still regard him as one my best and most favored instructors.) He gave us instructions to have the roles memorized and off book by January. I remember arriving back from Christmas break having 'studied' the role of Don Magnifico....(at least to the best of my knowledge and ability). At that first rehearsal it became immediately apparent that I didn't have a clue. Everyone was so far ahead of me. (I would later come to understand that the overwhelming majority of my colleagues in that cast had extensive backgrounds in Italian.....some were even fluent in conversational Italian....most had already performed several opera roles.....and all of them had been studying voice privately since early adolescents. ) As for me.....I arrived on the scene as a product of the Black church.....the Pentecostal church at that. My musical background was "hear it and sing it"....not "see it and sing it"
To make a long story short: My efforts hitherto were insufficient.....I simply did not know HOW to study this music, language, and character. As a result....I didn't really KNOW the notes...or the details of the rhythms...and my Italian was horrible. Professor Katz wanted to release me from the role...and in his 'special way'.....he made some ado about his disappointment and dissatisfaction with me.
Through that experience, I became well acquainted with how it feels to be the proverbial underdog....and to be thought of as something of a talented minority slacker. However, through that experience I also became acquainted with what it takes to overcome the odds. For the next 3 weeks I would eat and sleep Cenerentola......yes....I had the music on "loop mode" even as I slept...... (I also did a whole lot of praying!!....lol)......and by the time of the March performance...... my Don Magnifico was notably improved. In fact....Professor Katz wrote me a complimentary note of affirmation and apology....which he gave to me on opening night.
Since that time, I have tried to make a habit of showing up as one who is most prepared. And for the most part....I have been successful and consistent in so doing. I've had to work 3 times as hard to bring this Leporello 'online'.....and it has not be without some bit of struggle. I've endured the chastisements of Ms. Arroyo....the minor indiscretions of Maestro Crawford....and the curious glances of some of my colleagues. (Please allow me to be clear...they ALL have been immensely supportive...genuinely kind...and most collegial. I will discuss them more at length some other time.) Nevertheless.....I've more than once considered throwing in the towel. I am not used to having to 'bring up the rear'....and "learn it on my feet" as it were. And again....the Leporello is a HUGE role. It is the biggest role I have learned to date. Imagine my sense of comfort Kenny Overton came to me and shared that "the Leporello was (for him)....the hardest role to learn to date."
Status Report: At this point the first Act is memorized....as is most of the Act 2....now I to finish learning the famous cemetery scene and the Act 2 finale. Such will be my project for the weekend.
A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
As for this weeks online journal....I have decided to do something a little different. My Week 3 will reviewed be as a pictorial. Enjoy!
Typical Morning in New York
Me waking at 6am.....& leaving the house by 8:30am....(I decided to include this early morning pic for all of you who may be given to think that I take myself a bit too seriously....lol)
The Entrance of the Subway Station & the Subway
Catching the 86th Street Crosstown BusI only take public transportation if I am running a little behind schedule...and there is no time to for the 70 minute walk
"Things New York"4 Story Churches
Photo take from the first balcony
In New York, horizontal floor space is at a premium….as a result…mostly everything is built upward….to take advantage of the vertical expanse.
Meals on WheelsEach morning thousands of New Yorkers line up by the dozens in front of these steal troughs to feast on an assortment of high carb-high-fat....low cost-low nutrition goodies.....
including.....donuts...bagels....
Danishes...pastries...etc...some eve offer bacon and eggs....etc.
Sidewalk Street VendorsThese entrepreneurs are EVERYWHERE….selling EVERYTHING imaginable.
Underground BodegasYes….they even have subterranean markets throughout the subway system.
High-Rise ProjectsWhat would perhaps appear to be a skycrapper to the average Michigander….could just be a 20-story low income housing building…….. “penthouse projects” as it were.
Carry-Carts
Thousands of New Yorkers use these carry-carts to transport goods and merchandise from one place to another.
Me looking like....'ok...I think I have had just about enough'
Ebony Fashion and Urban Styles
Shoes and Shirts in Harlem
There is no shortage of ‘style’….after all….this is the fashion capital of the world.
Quick Observations about New York
Homelessness
The homeless situation in
Timberland Boots
I see far too many of US clunking through the streets in these clodhoppers….truly the goulashes of the ghetto….why do we insist on wearing them during the hot summer months is beyond me.
Random Scences from NYC
Cloudy Day in Harlem
Cocoa, Mocha, and Latte Folx in New York
Black Men and Handball
At first I thought...."wow...how novel"....then I learned that this was not just another toward eurocentricity.
Cocoa Folx in Harlem
Me between rehearsals....and after having lunch on a park bench
Great Places to Go in New York
Metropoliatan Museum
Washington Square Park
Liederkranz
This is the location of our rehearsals.
Rehearsal of Don Giovanni
Well...that is enough for now....time for me to give Leporello more of my undivided attention.
For those who didn't know....I have a birthday coming up......July 5th.....yeah.....I will be 26....again!!!.....lol......(just in case you wanna put something in the mail.....or in my checking account......lol)....thank goodness....I am not called for a rehearsal....but I have not yet decided how I will punctuate the day.
Be well,
Darnell
--
"We are limited only by our ability to live our dream, create a climate for change, and to use our resources to their fullest potential." -- Dahneo Ishongo
"State the problem.....but live in the solution" --Padro Harris
First of all....a huge thank you to everyone who sent me an email or left a voice message on my birthday. Yes, I'm 26 again! lol. But seriously....never before have I receive some many well wishes on my birthday.....it REALLY meant alot to me....you may never know just how much. :-)
Well….it is the end of week 4….and it is clear to me that somebody somewhere is praying for me….and for that…I am extremely grateful. No matter how much time I spend reviewing my score and practice material….I can never seem to satisfy my proof of memorization. My recall seems stagnate and incomplete. But when it came time for the staging rehearsals…..I called upon it…and it was there. You know….it is recorded in the holy writ that “the Holy Spirit will teach us all things…and will bring all things to our remembrance.” And I can bear witness that He has been doing just that for me with this opera. Thanks be to God!
So...what is a New York minute? For this weeks entry, I have decided to strive for brevity and percission.
Kelly Temple Church of God in ChristThis is the view from the balcony of this historic 85-year old Harlem church.
The service could be described as traditional (from a Pentecostal standpoint), formulaic, liturgical and pompous, “complete" with a processional of the Bishop followed closely by his numerous (and well-clad) ministerial staff.
The photos on the Kelly Temple COGIC website seem to make the church look much bigger than it actually is. (And more lively too.)
The service also included: The all-arresting "march" of the choir….(yes the choir wore robes and marched down the middle aisle of the sanctuary); a choral prayer chant…(which I did appreciate), an opening hymn (that was poorly executed…by the second verse it was clear that no one knew the words….and the organist seemed to be more familiar with the “tune” and less with the standard…dare I say….correct harmonization of the melody); and of course there was some good Pentecostal shout music…..(New York style). I must say....to my great satisfaction.....I did feel the presence of the Lord during the spontaneous singing of the Yes Lord praise....which immediatley followed the crash-and-burn redition of the opening hymn.
The Segmented Choir Loft
I couldn’t imagine conducting a choir whose members are so disparate.
Is Not Anything Sacred?
Each year the City of
Family of Choice
Jason, my fraternity Brother, came to
Alpha Stuff
After the service we walked up
We then went for a bite to eat a Fatman Flavor (a Jamaican spot up on 145th between
We caught the train downtown and walked through the
Jason said that the place reminds him of one of my other favorite places....that at this time in my life....I can ill-afford.....Whole Food Markets.
Took a few pics of Jason at Time Square…..doing thee touristy thing.
Just me
Independence Day 2006
The day was hot and humid. I got my headphones and my IPA note cards and went for a walk uptown.
Hundreds find relief from the heat at the High Bridge Park Pool. The facility is huge. My pictures here do not do justice.
Dahneo White
Saw a shirt in a store window. I love the clean distinctive style.
I turned a corned and there it was….this amazing view.
Homelessness
I turn yet another corner and this was the image set before me. His legs were swollen beyond belief and he did not seem to be in his right mind. We really must do more to contribute the welfare of such as these. If we would but pray.
What ever happened to Rev. Ike?
I don’t know what happened to him….but I am sure he is doing just fine....here is a pic of his church. I snapped it while riding the bus back downtown.
Sidewalk BBQ
I am sure to have seen a hundred of these make-shift concrete picnic sites on the 4th. Big grills….small grills….big tables….little tables….chairs…radios….ribs….chicken….beer. In some instances people were lined up right next to one another….all along the sidewalk. Itwas nothing like what I am used to in
Once Upon a Time- Suffering for Sicilian
Ben’s Pizza is located directly across from the world famous
Blue Note .
No Dogs Allowed
I was enjoying my pizza when in walks this woman with her four-legged, slobbering hound. And to top it all off…the guy perched behind the counter was looking at the beast like he was ready to take its order.
Homeless…Really?
This ‘homeless’ guy comes in…asking for alms. I was wearing the a baseball cap, sunglasses and my headphones….(part of my NYC “urban uniform”….I find that it helps to discourage solicitations……besides….…at the time I only had $5 in my pocket)
In any case….he boomed a dollar from some other guy….then he went and stood at a table and commenced to counting a big wad of money. I was like…..wow!
I also had a double take when I saw those clean spanking new sneakers he was wearing.
Birthday Outing - July 5
I caught the bus downtown and took this picture ofLincoln Center
This is a view from Columbus Circle.
Some more of that Alpha stuff
Leporello
These are from my fitting. Charles Cain is the costume designer. He did over 20 years at the Metropolitan Opera. Need I say more?
Make-up Master
It is widely known and accepted that stage make-up for African American singers can be a daunting challenge. Yesterday we had a master class on stage make-up by Steven Horak, another highly esteemed veteran in the business….with 13 years at San Francisco Opera and another bakers dozen at the Met.
NYC Street Vendors
Ladies….here are your purses!
Fruit and vegetable stands are EVERYWHERE…..and the prices are quite reasonable.
BMW’s and Urban Outfitters
I see so many standing/sitting idle on the corners and thoroughfares. I am always happy to see a Black man in a ‘corny’ uniform and working an honest job. I have seen this Subway several times. Apparently, his job is to stand on the busy corner of 86th and
This other guy is a real ‘urban outfitter’…..with his blue uniform, blue dumpster and broom…his awesome task is to keep the streets free of debris.
Where there is Smoke?
I woke up the other day to the oh too familiar sounds of horns and sirens. The alarm continued so I got up and looked out the window and this is what I saw…... about 3-4 blocks west….a pillar of smoke and a bunch of little red trucks with lights flashing.
“Done in by a Donut”
Hot and Crusty Why on earth did I have to stumble upon this place of decadent delight. I do my best to shun evil….(most of the time anyway…lol) This place has the most wonder bluberry scones.
I went in on another occasion and they didn’t have my scone…..and so….I can also vouch for their pineapple pecan sticky bun…..I return some days later….again seeking my blueberry scone…..and again…they didn’t have it….and so….uhhh…I settled for a ridiculously scrumptious raspberry pecan thing….I tell you….my face looks fatter….I don’t wanna take pictures…... They are trying to do me in I tell you!!!!
Park It
This is one of those typical NYC park benches….they are EVERYONE….to some…this is a merely a fixture of urban civilization…..to others….these wooden planks function has a bed…..or an impromptu triage. As for this one in particular….this is where I spend my mornings before the 10am rehearsal and my lunch break…..this is one of the places I study my music.
Haunting Headlines
Looks like something form the National Inquirer….but it is a true story….the guy was nearly hacked to death with a power saw while taking the train in the subway.
Out of ContextBefore I deal with this....allow me to preface in saying......any one who really knows me would attest that I am one who keeps a low profile...and is not much on personal ego or public acknowledgments.
Now....I have been in New York City for exactly 30 days today. I have participated in hours of rehearsals with a talented international cast and staff who have all been most kind and collegial.
But why is it that when I step 20-yards outside of the doors of the Liederkranz....none of them seem to know you I am? I mean....really...I know NYC is a big place....filled with many strange and familiar faces. But I can easily recall at least a dozen instances were I was I was less than a block away from the rehearsal sight....and was apparently....completely unseen by program participants. Perhaps I was just... out of context?
Well....I guess that is all for now folx. Please be sure to post comments or shot me an email. I really enjoy and appreciate your responses. Be well. Darnell
My 5th week is over....and my performance is on Friday July 21 at 7:30pm. This will likely be my last entry until some time after the performance. Again I cannot thank you enough for taking the time to read these entries....and particularly those of you who have responded by praying for me or by sending me words of encouragement.Being in New York preparing this role with Ms. Arroyo's Prelude to Performance opera training program has both encouraged and emboldened my will and desire to make a career in opera my full-time pursuit. (More on that after the performance.)
As for now....this is tech week....which means we will now have a series of full run through rehearsals at the auditorium, on-stage, with lights, in costum and with a full orchestra. (Uhh...did I mention....Leporello has about 1:40 minutes worth of music.....and the opera is roughly 2:30 hours.) I will be mindul to review all of my Leporello at least 50 times before the Friday performance. No more time for talking.
For this entry....I have tried to include even more photos....and even less words. Enjoy and be well,
Darnell
PS. A very special thank you to Mrs. Verna Holley (my high school music teacher). I was so very surprised and completely thrilled to recieve your letter the other day......I am eternally gratefull to you for giving me the gift of exposure.....you have been....and continue to be....a God-send......any measure of success and favor that befalls and overtakes me is due in part to your early tutetledge and cultivation.......I owe you an enormous debt...and will seek to pay it forward to the generations to come.
Upon Whose Shoulders I Now Stand - part 1 It is important to have role models, accessible mentors, and examples. Here are just a few of mine. (From left to right -Simone Estes, Robert McFerin, Simon Estes, William Warfield, Willard White, George Shirley, Nmon Ford)
De Organizer -1 First of all....every great performer must learn how to make an entrance.....particularly if you are a principle charector.
De Organizer -1 A good 'buffo' charactor artist must learn how to use his facial expressions to communicate comedy and/or to add more color and dimension to a charactor.
De Organizer -3 Learning stage combat is often an essential part of ones development and presentation in opera.
Sometimes we have to dance....on stage!I REAL challenge for me with my proverbial two left feet.
And sometimes we have create chemistry and 'be in love' with a person whom we just met. Here I am with Monique Holmes....we did have any problems with chemistry.....lol.
La Cenerentola - 1 Whether one is seated in a chair, laying on the floor, crouched under a table, or doing cartwheels across the stage, one must learn to sing while having the body in what ever position that the stage director dictates.
Like I said....one must learn to sing in ANY postion!
La Cenerentola - 2 Most principle roles will require one to sing a number of musical selections including arias, duets, trios, quartets, sextets, and chorus numbers.
Kings, villians, fathers, buffos and "old-man roles" are typically written for the Bass - Baritone voice. Here I play Don Magnifico.....the father of Cenetentola....otherwise know as Cinderella.
La Cenerentola - 3 In order to make an impact on an audience of upwards of 3,000 people, it is essential that the artist make their charectorizations a vivid, colorful, and 'bigger than life' as is artisticaly possible.
La Cenerentola - 4 Whether playing shock, disappointment, frustration, surprise, glee, sadness, stealth, anger or whatever...."Everything must be VERY VERY..."
Gionvanni - 1 Just like in life.....opera is not without sex, sensuality and seduction. Here Tanying Dong (Zerlina) and Jonathan Spuhler have a 'make-up' moment.
Gionvanni - 2 The end of a Mozart opera is typically signified with a staged 'line-up' during the singing of the last number in the Finale.
Gionvanni - 3 Jason McKinney (Don Giovanni) recieves notes from Maestro Steven Crawford.
Gionvanni - 4 The rest of the case recieves notes after a run-through of Act 1
Upon Whose Shoulders I Now Stand - part 2 Legendary coach/accompanist Maestro Warren Williams honors us with a surprise visit to our rehearsal. He also shared with me some invaluable insights, advisements and critiques on my Leporello.
Ms. Arroyo with Ken Benson artists manager at Columbia Artist Management, Inc.
Prelude to Performance singers and Ms. Arroyo pose for photo with Ken Benson of Columbia Artist Management following his amazing master class exploring the nuts and bolts of artist managment in opera.
Me with Eleni Calenos (Donna Elvira)
Me with Alia Waheed (Donna Anna)
Me with Luis Cabera (Don Ottavio)
Me with Andrea Arias (Zerlina) 
Me with Jason McKinney (Don Giovanni)
Me with Alicia Moran (Donna Anna)
MOT for Me? - This is how I looked when I got of the phone with the Assistant Artistic Director from Michigan Opera Theater. And get this.....I was standing in the lobby of the Metropolitan Opera House when I took his call. (Is that prophetic or what??) In any case....it was my first request for professional work. I had to call my mama and share with her the news. That is me on the phone with her....lol.
"I Dunno....Just Because" shots - 1Catching the elevator on my way to rehearsal.
"I Dunno....Just Because" shots - 2Catching the train uptown on my way from rehearsal.
"I Dunno....Just Because" shots - 3Crossing through Central Park on my way to rehearsal
Pricy Pad 1- How much does one pay in Manhattan for a 7th Story Corner aparenent with a panoramic view? I don't know....but...I sure do want one!...lolThis the the view from the living room in Rod's apartment.
Pricy Pad 2 - Turn slightly to the left and this is also the view from the living room in Rod's apartment.
A Movado With Bravo - This magnanimus marvel of marble is located not a stones throw from Linclon Center. Yes, it is a real Movado!
Pretty in Pink? - I don't know....I tell you....anytime I wear something pink or pastel....I get tons of compliments about how well it suits me....remarks from friends and strangers alike.....I don't know....maybe I need a permanent make-over.
Without Any Direction - Stage director Laura Alley and I happend to wear the same color coordinates....so....I took a picture.
Park Avenue Puppy Poopers - 1 From the elevators to the resturants to the trains....I see dogs everwhere. And too often...I can see the evidence of wear they have been.
Park Avenue Puppy Poopers - 1 At least thisPark Avenue resident was mindfull to clean up behind her beast. This city could sure us more like her.
Pigeon Soup? - Rats! These winged rats! Whatever happend to pigeon soup?
Look and Live! - Always cast your gaze upward....never surrender....and never die!
Outter Limits? I think the contour and angle of this photo kinda makes me look something like an alien from outer space. (or maybe it just took 20lbs off of my apperance...lol)
Subway 101 - 1 Metro riders pass through these turnstiles to get to the trains or to access the stairway to the streets above.
Subway 101 - 2- Metro riders can purchase a metro card at any one of these automated machines.
Aspiring Artist and Working Professionals - Here my good friend Mikal shares a horrific tale of how he incured an eye injury while playing tennis. He is an actor and cinematographer.
Choice Jamaican? - This just may become my 'new' Jamaican spot. Mikal turned me on to it. The jerk chicken was the best I've had since my summer in Kingston 10 years ago. The slow service was also reminiscent of the same.
Who's Child Is This? - 1 Apparently, a large population of ethinic women (both immagrant and native) work as nanny's and personal care assistants for wealthy New Yorkers.
Who's Child Is This? - 2 I see this scene countless times throughout my day.
From Futility to Ingenuity? -It was a hot Satruday afternoon, and these two youngsters appeared to be trying to see who could spue water the farthest.
Sidewalk Picnics in Harlem - No, she is not selling rib dinners....this is food production is strictly for her family and close friends.
Fruit Vendors in Harlem - Some of which have the artistic ability to carve a pineapple and make it look like a petunia!
Double Decker Tour Bus - One could easily spot a 100 of these in one day.
Sidewalk Cafe's in the Village - If you know me.....you KNOW I enjoy good food.....but I really don't think I would enjoy eating even the finest of delicacies while perched at a tiny table out on a crowd and busy sidewalk.
Saturday Afternoon Basketball Game in the Village - 1 Yup....they had uniforms, officials and everything.
Saturday Afternoon Basketball Game in the Village - 2 And yes....the people crowd the sidewalk to view the spectacles performed by the wiry specimens.
Village Views - 1 Just happened turn a corned while in the Village and there it was....this amazing view.
Village Views - 2 I looked back over my shoulder...and there was this one.
Thanks for dropping by. HOPE TO HEAR FROM YOU AGAIN SOON!
My sixth and seventh week in On the eve of the performance I sent out an email requesting the prayers and well-wishes of my family, friends, and supports. Thank you all for your responses. Here below is an excerpt of one such response that, for me, seems to poignantly capture the sentiments shared by all.
"Darnell,
As I am more in tune to the REASON than merely the reality, I say: RETURN THE BLESSING through your sharing in tonight's experience. Though others will undoubtedly be blessed during your renditions tonight, sing them for HIM. And see what happens through your yieldedness. Thank HIM (as I already know you do) with every ounce of vocality within your Spirit as you concentrate on your notes. LET HIM FLOW. And you will enjoy the best "offering" of Opera that you can imagine.
A PHI and Amen.
- Brother Baker"
His words were really powerful for me....and really capture the essence of my hearts desire....as I hope you are able to see more clearly as you review the contents of the update.
The Air I Breathe
Wow! What can I say? God has truly smiled on me. By now you all have probably seen the article in the New York Times. I must admit, I was nearly bowled over when Jorge (the Commendatore) showed me the Monday July 24th paper at 2:45 pm at the Liederkranz. We were all assembling for our 3:00 pm farewell program debriefing and fellowship meal with Ms. Arroyo. Various friends and colleagues were congratulating me (on Friday’s performance or so I thought). When Jorge showed me the article I was bowled over with surprise and exhilaration. Until then I really had no idea. (I mean.. I did receive a one line email message from Senor Stefani our programs language teacher congratulating us on a great review in the NY Times but I figured it was probably just a quick sound-bite.) I wanted to just sit down and read it right there in the lobby but I was so thrilled - nearly to tears - I doubted my ability to maintain my composure. I immediately began to dig for my cell phone so that I could call my mother.
Songs My Mother Taught Me
Years ago, my mother advised me on the matter of setting and reaching goals. She said three things that stick with me to this day (1) “Always imagine the absolute worst thing that could happen and fix your mind, spirit, and emotions to be able to deal with that. If you have a really good imagination, it is not likely that things will ever get that bad. But just incase they do at least you will not be caught completely off guard. So prepare for the worst but expect the best. (2) The second pearl she shared is something of a first cousin to the former. She said “Sometimes it takes years to reach a goal. If the journey across the expanse of time is to take 5 years, be willing to give it 10 but work like you need to achieve it in 3. (3) The last things she said excerpted from the Scriptures. She said, “Acknowledge God in everything you do and He will direct your path.” And so…like a song that never stops singing in my head….I still carry these principles with me to this day….and….I always will.
Maestro Steven Crawford conducts the stizprobe.I made sooooo many frustrating and potentially embarassing errors at this rehearsal. I just had a hugely difficult time hearing the orchestra and the pulse of the music while singing at full voice.
Alicia Hall Moran (Donna Anna) practices recitative with Luis Emilio Cabrera (Don Ottavio).
Peter Hakjoon Kim (Don Giovanni) struggles to stifle Eleni Calenos (Donna Elivira)
Jonathan Spuhler (Masetto) in very upscale peasant clothing.
Jason McKinney (Don Giovanni) practices the art of seduction.
Samantha Jeffreys (Donna Elvira) 
Darnell with Samantha Jeffreys (Donna Elvira)
Darnell with Alia Waheed (Donna Anna)
Darnell with Tanying Dong (Zerlina)
Portrait of a Prima DonnaAlicia Hall Moran strikes a pose reminicent of the grace and glamore of the great Shirley Verrett.....(who just so happens to be her voice teacher....and longtime family friend.)
Peter Hakjoon Kim
Good Friends, Great MemoriesDarnell with Vashawn McIlwain (baritone from Washington DC). He and I did our first Cosi fan tutte together in Italy.
Three Mo DivasSome of the dearest divas I know.
Donna Elivra's Lavishing LamentSamatha Jeffreys sings of vengence on Don Giovannin for unrequited love and infedelity.
Issac Grier as the stony Commendatore
Issac Grier (Commendatore) as the valiant father of Donna Anna
Alia Waheed makes final preparations
Death SceneSeong Young Moon (Don Ottavio) and Alia Waheed (Donna Anna) discover her father the Commendatore smiten by her midnight asailant Don Giovonni.
Mille Tre!DeAndre Simmons (Leporello) schools Donna Elvira (Giovannis wife) on the Don's numerous feminine conquest......of which he has 1,003 in Spain alone!
Che Mascare GalantiAn Act One trio moment.
Leporello the Lovable LouseThe many faces of Leporello....(I mean...after all...it is a buffo role.....therefore.....buffoonery is absolutley legal and absolutley essential.)
“You’re Gonna Need It…”
When an older man tells a young lad “Here, take this…you’re going to need it one day”….make sure you pay close attention….take to heart what he says….and make sure you preserve the gift he gave you….whether it be a word of advice or something else more tangible…..chances are…..he’s right.
About 5 years ago Dr. Willis C. Patterson (Dean Emeritus at the
Much to My SurprisePhoto from article in the New York Times
Click here to read the article online
ARTS / MUSIC | July 24, 2006
Opera Review: Nurtured Young Performers in Mozart's Bad Boy Tale, 'Don Giovanni'
By VIVIEN SCHWEITZER
The production at El Museo del Barrio's Teatro Heckscher was the culmination of Prelude to Performance, a six-week training program for young singers.
Cast in CeluloidThe Friday cast of Don Giovanni take a moment after the show to capture a memory with our wonderful stage director Laura Alley.
Ole!One the day of the performance Rod and I had a lite lunch at Chipotle one of my favorite spots for Southwestern food. There food is so fresh and the guacamole, chips and salsa can easily become an obsession.
The Grace FactorI am reminded of the words of Dr. Charles H. Beady, former president of the
Russian RavorsOn the day of the show, my friend Mikal took me down to the Village for a haircut by his barber......his RUSSIAN barber. Of course this was a NEW experience.....but I must admit.....he was doing a most excellent job.....up until he lined me across the forehead and took my hairline back by nearly 2 inches!!....so then I just had him cut i
Brothermans BarberThis is Miikal getting his usual taper fade. And yeah....that's another brother getting done up by another Russian barber. Apparently, they have a very strong black clientel.
Urban Preppy or what? This was my "going to the opera look".....I am not quite sure what to call it...but thought I would try something completely different from my normal...dark conservative look....(lol.....got a whole lot of compliments too!!)....uh and yes....that is a Seersucker jacket....lol
Darnell with Andrea Arias (Zerlina)
Darnell with Samantha Jeffreys (Donna Elvira)
Stumped and TrumpedTrump Tower - Columbus Circle near 59th Street. I am on my way to meet my sands Ron Jackson for lunch....just got off the train and must now figure out how to get to 71st and 3rd.....I ended up walking 8-10 blocks over to 3rd and then catching the bus uptown.
Taken for A Ride59th Street.....I still find it difficult to understand why one would pay $35 to ride in an open horse-drawn carridge in a metropolitan city like this.
Street WindowsI was standing on 59th Street...skyscrappers and horses to my right...pedestrians and tourist all about....and then I looked to my left....and saw this picturesque view of an area of Central Park.
A Temporary Sidewalk Sensation Somewhere in the Village. 
A Busy Intersection at Central Park and 110. If you look closely you will see 3 ladies on these moterized scooters. I see a GREAT deal of this type of thing here....from youth to snow crowned age....people of color in wheel chairs and scooters.
Life imitating art....or....art imitating life?
???????Which way do I go? This week I will make a decision as whether to reside in Michigan and continue teaching at WCC, Madonna University, and Walled Lake Central High School (in addition to serving as music director at the Lansing Church of God in Christ) or to relocate to NYC and make a a career in performance my fulltime pursuit.
I pray the Lord will make my pathway clear.
Be well,
PS......
Dear Friends,
THIS IS MY FINAL POST....on 'life in New York Summer 06'
At this point... the focus of my blog site will make a transition.....as the subject matter will become more inclusive of other aspects of my life.
I will purge this current email distribution list and develop two seperate email distribution lists: one for "Professional" updates and one for "Life in General" updates.
So as not to bombard your mailbox with posting updates on the more frivolous and mundane minutia of my life,
In order to continue recieving an email about blog updates you will need to send me an email reply requesting to be on added to either one of the new distribution list. As a courtesy to you....I will NOT add your email to the list without your expressed consent.
Again, thank you for your time....your caring.... your support....prayers...and love.
Be well,
Darnell
Dear Friends,
(You will also find a picture of me with Ms. Arroyo.)
Martina Arroyo Foundation - Prelude to Performance in Opera News
Click the link below to learn more about my upcoming performance.
Upcoming Performance - Adriadne auf Naxos by Strauss
If you are interested in my other sides of life…..you can visit my other blog site Ishongo – JUST CLICK HERE
Best and be well,
Darnell
posted by Darnell Ishmel at 10/10/2007 08:27:00 AM
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