“Don’t let anyone tell you music is just a hobby. If all you can imagine doing in life is music, then go for it!”
When did you first become involved with the Rodolfus Choir?
I joined the choir around 2015, after I had been on a couple of the Eton Choral Courses.
What do you remember about your first concert singing with the choir?
It was for a performance of Beethoven 9 at the Royal Festival Hall. I remember it distinctly as this was the first time I had performed in such a prestigious venue. Walking out into the choir stalls ready for the concert to begin was such an incredible feeling!
Can you pick one highlight of being a member of the choir?
Singing as part of the Three Choirs Festival a few years back. We were performing a lot of repertoire that was new to me and which has subsequently stuck with me, particularly Palestrina's "Stabat Mater a 8" and Mahler's "Die zwei blauen Augen". However, the highlight of that concert was standing in a large circle around he audience singing Barber's "Agnus Dei". Also, the size of this particular choir was relatively small, so these events were also the first time I was properly able to get know other people in the choir and feel a real part of it.
What are you up to now?
I am in my final year of my Undergraduate Degree at Leeds Conservatoire, studying Classical Singing. Alongside preparing for my final recital at Leeds, I am also in the middle of preparing for Master's auditions in London and Manchester, and busy running the Leeds Conservatoire Student Opera Society. Since being in Leeds I have also founded my own vocal quartet (The Meanwood Ensemble). Our aim is to bring choral music out of churches and into more casual locations such as bars and coffee shops, in order to make is more accessible.
If you had to pick only one song to sing for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
"Si mi chiamano Mimì" from Puccini's La Bohème. I just find it utterly beautiful and no matter how many time I listen to it, it always elicits such an emotional response for me.
Who are your top three composers, musicians or bands from the past and present?
Mozart, R.Strauss and Puccini.
Can anyone else in your family sing?
My grandfather used to be an avid singer and my brother and I sang together in the choir at school. The musical gene definitely skipped a generation in my family!
Where would you like to be in 10 years time?
I would like to be performing as an international opera singer!
Have you any advice to give to our junior singers?
Don't let anyone tell you music is just a hobby. If all you can imagine doing in life is music, then go for it!
We have three office dogs at The Rodolfus Foundation. What's your favourite animal and why?
Dogs! I have 3 of my own dogs and they are the greatest companions. They give me a reason to get outside everyday for fresh air and they're always so happy to see me when I get home!
Thanks for taking the time to speak to us, Sumei! Don’t forget to sign up to our mailing list to keep up with the latest news, project information, and great content from Rodolfus HQ.