What the Fach?

We're joined by the fabulous Hattie Butterworth: journalist, editor, cellist, and mental health campaigner... what can't she do?! Hattie is the founder of the podcast Things Musicians Don't Talk About , a revolutionary platform, which has helped change the stigma surrounding mental health with musicians. Hattie shares her own journey with severe anxiety, OCD, depression, and an eating...

In this episode we chat to Shakira Tsindos – mezzo-soprano and creator of Your Artist Media – who manages the socials of opera singers like Aigul Akhmethsina , as well as promoting star artists represented by agencies such as MWA and MK Impresario. We know intimately that, as opera singers, socials can feel scary. How can you present yourself online without feeling vulnerable? When your instrument...

Timothée Chalamet said opera is dead. The Met is down to nine donors. And someone in a young artist program was told to try a weight loss drug. We are back in the same room and we have a lot to say. Featuring: karaoke confessions, frozen foreheads, billionaires buying streaming services, and a feminist theory that connects all of it... Comment below with your thoughts and feelings!

January catch-up incoming 💋 We get real about the taboo no one wants to touch: audition costs. From eye-watering audition expenses (how much did we actually drop this season?!) to tales from a European audition tour backed by the ultimate keyboard-warrior mum. We dive into our audition experiences too, sharing the highs, the lows, and the full horror stories, plus some very exciting updates on yo...

Soprano Emily Hindrichs spills all on how she went from New Orleans to accidentally building a powerhouse career in Europe – landing at Oper Köln and escaping a lifetime of only singing Queen of the Night. She breaks down what fest life is really like (spoiler: structure! colleagues! health insurance!) and why the German system can either lift you up or chew you up if you’re not steering your own...

This episode, we’re joined by the one and only Laurence Kilsby – tenor, storyteller, and all-around vocal powerhouse – for a no-holds-barred look behind the velvet curtain. From choirboy beginnings to international stages, Laurence spills the tea on surviving typecasting, balancing a jet-setting career with real life, and the art of not losing your mind (or your voice) in the process. We dive into...

In this episode, we dive into the highs, lows, and hilarious realities of life in the chorus. We share personal stories and insights that most young singers will relate to, such as auditions – what works, what doesn't, and how to cope. We ask the all-important question: Which opera characters would we date... and which ones are immediate red flags? Then, get ready for some voice type hot-takes...

This week, we’re joined by the amazing Jan Capiński to talk all things recording! From the highs and lows of studio life to tips for capturing the perfect performance, Jan shares his insider knowledge with warmth and humour. Of course, we also play some new games, get a little chaotic, and sneak in some metal chat... because why not? You can find Jan's Recording Basic's Course here .

In the pilot episode of What the Fach ?, Clover and Erin introduce themselves – two young singers navigating the highs, lows, and everything in between of the opera world. Expect honest chats, unfiltered stories, and a healthy dose of humour as they kick off this new adventure. Whether you're a fellow musician or just opera-curious, they're so glad you're here. Fach, pronounced "f...