“I had the pleasure of singing Brahms' 'Alto Rhapsody' at the Proms back in 2015 with Marin Alsop, and I remember the energy of the crowd nearly bowling me over when I walked out! I think I could have reached out and literally touched some of the people in the standing section of the crowd directly in front of me – it's an event that is simultaneously intimate and absolutely massive at the same time.”
Read More“Growing up on a small farm in the northwest Georgia mountains, “music” meant many things to me — bluegrass, classic rock, church hymns — but never in a million years did I imagine that classical music would become a defining element in my life.”
Read MoreBarton’s turn in the SW7 spotlight (in a year which happens to mark 50 years since the Stonewall riots) is likely to be an especially fabulous reflection of what she proudly describes as her truth. “I feel that promoting and celebrating love in all its forms is something we can all get behind.”
Read MoreJamie Barton has an obvious affinity for strong, confident and outspoken women — both on and off the operatic stage. Perhaps that’s because, well, she’s one herself.
Read More“Learn what makes you unique and develop your artistry with integrity – with the honesty of who you are. Audiences crave that kind of vulnerability and authenticity from those of us on stage.”
Read MoreShe’s an artist whose exceptional personal warmth has endeared her to colleagues and audiences everywhere. Watch her walk onstage for a recital; she does so with regal confidence, but also with an inviting smile and a palpable eagerness to share stories with her listeners through song.
Read MoreOpera is no stranger to crimes of passion. However, opera also portrays the best of humanity alongside all of the human folly. The Atlanta Opera’s production of Dead Man Walking stars Georgia native and internationally renowned mezzo-soprano Jamie Barton in the role of Sister Helen Prejean. Heggie’s operas always seem to offer redemption in the midst of tragedy, and Dead Man Walking appears to be no different. We caught up with Barton to discuss her upcoming role at the Atlanta Opera.
Read MoreBut far more than just enjoying some downtime in her base city, Barton seems very much at home with herself spiritually and personally now, too, riding out some challenging changes in her life and learning to manage the pressures of a major opera career. The purple streak in her hair might come as a surprise at first, but it ultimately seems to suit her perfectly…
Read More“I think it’s something that audiences can cling to,” Barton says. “They see this tale of forgiveness that is hard. It’s not an easy forgiveness at all. But it challenges people in the best kind of ways to encourage their forgiveness, to encourage their empathy…”
Read MoreAhead of opening night at Lyric Opera of Chicago, Jamie Barton curated a special playlist for us of her favourite Verdi mezzos of all time. There are some big voices here, so crank up your speakers and strap in for a thrilling ride!
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