Gillian watson
Soprano
Biography
Soprano Gillian Watson is a luminary in the world of opera, celebrated for her ability to seamlessly blend a radiant shimmer with a resonant depth, resulting in a sound that has been described as possessing "both power and incredible sweetness."
In 2023, Watson's artistry took center stage as she joined two distinguished ensembles. In March, she joined Regina Opera where she portrayed Giorgetta in their standalone production of Puccini's Il Tabarro. Her portrayal captured both the emotional nuances and musical finesse of the role, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Earlier this year, in January, Watson lent her captivating voice to New York Dramatic Voices, taking on the roles of Fourth Maid and the Confidant in Strauss' Elektra. This wasn't Watson's first collaboration with NYDV; she had previously enthralled audiences in the summer of 2022 with scenes from La Gioconda and Götterdämmerung.
In January 2023, she received an invitation to audition for the prestigious Welsh National Opera in Cardiff, reflecting her growing international recognition. Equally impressive was her participation in the Montserrat Caballé International Singing Competition in Barcelona, Spain, in 2021, which demonstrated her readiness to shine on the global stage.
Among the cherished highlights of her career are the iconic roles she's breathed life into. From Countess Almaviva in Mozart's Le nozze di Figaro to Mimì in Puccini's La Bohème, Watson's ability to embody a diverse range of characters underscores her exceptional artistry. Additionally, her portrayals of Donna Anna in Don Giovanni and Desdemona in Verdi's Otello stand as a testament to her command over both the lyrical and dramatic aspects of her soprano range.
Drawing inspiration from the various teachers she's has worked with; Watson has continually pushed the boundaries of her own talent. Notable teachers include Carol Neblett, Cesar Ulloa and Elizabeth de Trejo. Watson's musical journey is underscored by a strong academic foundation. She earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees from the prestigious San Francisco Conservatory of Music, where she honed her technical skills and artistic sensibilities, setting the stage for her exciting career.
Recordings
Carmen - Bizet
Piano: Mun-tzung Wong
Recorded July 2023
Je dis, que rien ne m'épouvante
Dich, theure halle
Tannhäuser - Wagner
Piano: Mun-tzung Wong
Recorded July 2023
È ben altro il mio sogno
Il Tabarro - Puccini
Piano: Mun-tzung Wong
Recorded July 2023
Pictures
Headshots
Pictures by Grace Stockdale | Makeup + Hair by Lindsay Lavin
Production Pictures
Candids
Reviews
“Gillian Watson is new to us and we were glad to have her brought to our attention. Her bright and powerful instrument was put to good use in "Mi tradi" from Mozart's Don Giovanni. She evinced a fine vibrato and successfully negotiated the melismatic arpeggi. She limned the character of Donna Elvira with fine vocal control combined with generous use of gesture.
Later in the program we heard her fine French in "Il est doux, il est bon" from the seldom performed Hérodiade by Massenet.”
- Voce di Meche -
"Gillian Watson acted the role of Joan [of Arc] with fiery eyes... her luminous range fits the role."
- Huffington Post -
contact
Locations
New York City + Los Angeles
Email
gillianwatsonsoprano@gmail.com
gillianwatsonsoprano@gmail.com
