Von Bringhurst, Countertenor
How did you begin playing and performing music?
My family has been musical my entire life. I’ve been singing and playing piano since at least age 4 and music has always been a part of my life.
Did you have access to music education in school?
Yes, to the detriment of other extracurricular activities I might have been involved in. Once I reached high school, it was a question of what I wanted to do as a career. I chose music instead of International Relations into a possible law degree.
Tell us about a great music teacher you had.
I’ve been very fortunate to have a number of excellent teachers throughout my training and career. My undergraduate voice instructor at Idaho State University helped immensely through a change of major from Music Education to Bachelor of Science in Music and helped my training as a countertenor.
How often do you practice and/or rehearse?
It depends on the particular piece or event. I’m at least thinking about upcoming music for myself or my students every day and doing at least a minor amount of singing on most days. Practice for me can include notes, rhythms, memorization, literary analysis, linguistics research, historical and contextual research into what the composer and/or poet might have been aware of or thinking when they composed the piece. Days off are essential, to allow the mind and body to internalize what you’ve been working on.
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?
Pay attention to what inspires you, what excites you. That passion cannot be easily replicated and will help move you forward in the most challenging times.
Watch Von Bringhurst’s concert on CSMA’s YouTube channel and subscribe so you don’t miss a concert!
