Soprano Bronwyn White won Young Texas Artists’ Gold Medal in Voice in 2022, which followed a Silver Medal in 2019.
She recently spoke with us about her career and her memories of competing with YTA.
It’s been more than three years since you last competed with YTA. How would you say your experiences with the competition impacted you?
The Young Texas Artists Competition was a wonderful experience. The other competitors were lovely, and I received really valuable feedback from the judges.
The career coaching that was offered to all the finalists was a turning point for me, encouraging me to take real ownership of my artistic path and repertoire choices. My coach helped me think more entrepreneurially, collaborate more freely, and, most importantly, gave me the confidence to step outside my opera comfort zone and explore contemporary works.
What have you been up to since then?
I’ve performed with Opera San Antonio as Sandman in “Hansel and Gretel” and Countess Ceprano in “Rigoletto.”
In addition to opera, I’ve found great joy in contemporary works and recital programming. Highlights include serving as soprano soloist in Heeyun Kim’s “R.I.P. 2020” with the SOLI Chamber Ensemble in Dallas and San Antonio, as well as recording the piece with Parma Records.
I’ve also performed in “Vespers for a New Dark Age” and “The Branch Will Not Break” with Verdigris Ensemble and EnsembleNewSRQ in Texas and Florida.
Collaborating with cultural institutions on recital programming has been especially meaningful. Recent partnerships include the San Antonio Museum of Art, First Baptist Church of San Antonio, and the Art Song Center for Musicians and Poets.
What have been some of the more memorable moments of your music career so far? Why were they meaningful to you?
Some of my favorite memories are of opera outreach performances in schools. The students are so excited to see a live performance, and they often sing along. It’s so special and rewarding to see children connecting with characters and stories from classical music.
What are your goals from here? (Personal or professional)
I just had my second baby in January! I’m currently searching for a balance between being a mom and being an artist. My goal is to choose projects that I find meaningful and that feed my soul, while allowing me to prioritize time with my two little boys.
Please tell us what you enjoy doing for fun or to relax. Do you have any hobbies?
I enjoy going on adventures with my children; we love to travel and explore. I also make candles for fun.
What advice would you offer young artists who are just starting their music careers?
I would encourage young musicians to explore any style of music-making that they find interesting and worthwhile and to seek out performances and collaborations that could enhance their artistry, including those outside mainstream classical music.