Member Spotlight: Madeline Boreham - Soprano

Fresh from her exciting jump in as Mimi in La bohème with English National Opera, we are delighted to welcome British soprano Madeline Boreham for this week's member spotlight.

1. How do you describe yourself as an artist?

I come from a real ‘salt-of-the-earth’ family and try to stay as connected to those roots as I can. I try to keep things fun and light as much as I can whilst also being completely dedicated to my music and performance. What is singing without joy, at the end of the day?

2. What other skills or passions do you have that help shape you as an artist?

I am a big reader! On days when I’m not singing, I love nothing more than to get comfy with a fantasy book and a nice cup of coffee. My favourite thing to read is strong female main characters, I find that I connect strongly with a lot of them and oftentimes will be able to find some links to characters that I am working on musically!

3. What has been the most memorable and rewarding experience you have had as an artist?

I recently jumped in for 7 performances as Mimi at ENO when the main soprano fell ill. I learnt a huge amount about not only how to perform on such a large stage, singing such an iconic role, but also how to take care of myself off-stage before and after a performance. This career is a huge mental playground and working out how to navigate it is half the challenge!

4. What role, company or performing situation would be a dream come true for you as an artist?

I’ve regularly said that if I was ever to perform at Metropolitan Opera in New York, I could die with a smile on my face. I have never been over to New York and to me it feels like the ultimate goal. To sing any principal soprano role out there would be an absolute dream!

5. What do you like most about being a creative artist?

I love collaborating with others. Getting to know other artists and finding out how they work is so fascinating to me. I was once described as a ‘sponge for information’ and I just love soaking up ideas and knowledge from other people I work with!

6. If you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Trust your instinct. It’s important to listen to everyone around you but don’t get caught up on the little things. When something doesn’t feel right, listen to that feeling. Let your instinct propel you forward! 

7. Three words that are the pillars you shape your career by:

Poise, Curiosity and Joy

8. Where can our followers hear you next?

As the Christmas season approaches, I have a number of choral solo performances but I am really looking forward to being the soprano soloist for the beautiful ‘Ode to the Nativity’ by Parry on 11th December with UAE Choirs at The Cathedral of St John the Baptist, Norwich.

For tickets, please visit https://www.uea.ac.uk/events/uea-choirs-christmas-carol-concert. Keep up todate with all Madeline's news here - https://www.madelineboreham.com/diary