Amanda Brunk sings Vergin, tutto amor
About the artist(s)
I am a vocologist and voice teacher at Wilfrid Laurier University and in my own private studio. I teach many styles in cross-over training, but mostly specialize now in music theatre and CCM. I live with a permanent scar on my right vocal fold from an on-stage vocal hemorrhage.
Artist Interview
When did you first encounter the 24 Italian Songs & Arias? And how did you feel about them then and now?
I first purchased the book in my first year of my undergrad degree in voice performance. Se tu m’ami was my first piece. It was terrifying, as I had no prior experience singing solo Italian music. I really only learned to love them later when I began teaching them.
What do you remember about yourself when you first sang them?
I was incredibly green and very new to singing classical music! The Italian songs were mostly vehicles to learn IPA at that time, and I didn’t get a chance to learn to love them in my voice.
What have you learned about yourself on your journey with singing?
My performing career was cut off before it began, when I had a severe vocal injury in my fourth undergraduate year that left me with a scar and severe Muscle Tension Dysphonia. For over 20 years, I was on a journey to discover my place in the world of singing, and if that would ever even exist for me at all. I had to overcome depression, multiple misdiagnoses, and failed treatments, stigma, physical discomfort, and, worst of all, the realization that I would never perform again.
After much determination to continue to learn and grow, and many beautiful and patient human angels to help me along the way, I managed to rehabilitate my voice to a point where I can sing these songs and enjoy my voice for what it is, without pain or discomfort or the fear of judgment.
For the first time in my life, I sing freely and from my heart. This submission is, for me, a celebration!
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