You are joining IT&T and the Summertown Choral Society for Monteverdi’s Vespers on February 9th. Do you have a particular favourite among Monteverdi's works? And if so, what is it about this piece which distinguishes it above the others?

Difficult question! His 5 part madrigals are amazing, for instance Hor Che’l Ciel, but there are also his operas - L’Orfeo is the best. But the Vespers is undoubtedly his masterpiece for me - it takes the listener on an incredible musical journey.

Your career encompasses concert performances and staged operas. Are there any particular challenges or delights associated with performing in a staged opera, in comparison to a concert performance?

With Opera it is very liberating to move around a stage without the score - it can really free the music making up and it is so satisfying when it all comes together. Recent challenges though include sitting on the floor 20 meters from the conductor...

Which projects, professional or personal, are you particularly looking forward to in the coming months?

I’m particularly looking forward to singing the role of Jupiter in a staged Semele (Handel) later this year, another phenomenal piece of music!