James Valenti
	Relaxing on Sydney Harbour. Image: Command Opera
	As Edgardo in Lucia di Lammermoor. Image: Canberra Critics Circle
	As Edgardo in Lucia di Lammermoor. Image: Canberra Critics Circle

Visiting Australia for the first time, opera singer James Valenti speaks to e-Travel Blackboard about his New Jersey roots and his one time dream to become a comedian.

e-Travel Blackboard: Who inspired you to get into opera?  

James: I started singing in high school in the choir.  I first became interested in opera with the advent of The Three Tenors.

I was riveted by their power, range, expression and artistry...particularly the voice of Luciano Pavarotti. 

e-Travel Blackboard: Did you always know you wanted to work in the music industry? 

James: No, like most hot blooded American boys I wanted to be an athlete...basketball or baseball player. 

There was also a time that I thought I wanted to be a comedian.

e-Travel Blackboard: Growing up in New Jersey, what are the things that can lure people there from the Big Apple?

James: New Jersey offers a lot...lots of big homes, safe family neighborhoods, lots of recreational areas, parks, farms, great beaches for summer vacations, tranquility and close proximity to NYC.

It was a great place to grow up. 

e-Travel Blackboard: You’re here to perform as Edgardo in Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor at the Sydney Opera House in Italian. Do you speak Italian, or do you just learn the “script” each time you need to perform in Italian?   

James: I do speak conversational Italian. 

e-Travel Blackboard: Is this your first time in Sydney?

James: Yes and first time to Australia.

e-Travel Blackboard: What is on your to-do list while you’re in Sydney?

James: I've been out on the harbour a lot. I love being on the water. 

I've also compiled a list of many great restaurants (Cafe Sydney, Tatsuya, Rockpool, Aria, Quay and others) and I also want to learn how to surf at Bondi Beach! 

e-Travel Blackboard: What other destinations has your career taken you?

James: All over the world! 

I've spent considerable time in London, Paris, Vienna, Munich, Berlin, Rome, Milan, Marseille, Tokyo, Seoul, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Chicago, San Francisco, Miami and Dallas.

e-Travel Blackboard: What’s the most memorable travel experience you’ve had? 

James: A romantic new years eve in St Petersburg Russia with my girlfriend last year.

e-Travel Blackboard: What destinations are on your travel bucket list?

James: I'd love to visit the Emirates, Dubai and Abu-Dhabi.

e-Travel Blackboard: What are three items you never travel without? 

James: My computer, my huge bag of vitamins and herbal remedies, patience and a sense of humor and humility.