“The more you let go, the more artistic ability you have.”

Nicole PiccolominiIn this episode, I interview Nicole Piccolomini, an American-raised opera singer living in Berlin. Nicole grew up in Long Island, NY with a supportive mother who not only encouraged her love of music and Broadway but helped introduce Nicole to classical music.

Although Nicole grew up watching performances in Manhattan and renting VHS tapes of A Chorus Line, today she’s a talented mezzo-soprano known for her exceptional portrayal of Maddalena in Verdi’s Rigoletto. In addition to singing on stage throughout Europe, she records albums and occasionally performs in the United States. If you’re curious to know what it takes to be a professional opera singer, this is the episode for you!

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During our chat, we discuss;

  • Nicole’s first love, dance, as a child growing up in Long Island, NY, and the influence of her mother.
  • The role A Chorus Line played in Nicole’s love of performing.
  • How a handful of CDs placed under her pillow influenced Nicole’s interest in classical music.
  • Nicole’s greatest lesson as a creative.
  • Why friendships with other creatives are so important.
  • The importance of ”letting go” as an artist.
  • Why Nicole defines artistic success as longevity.
  • The decision to become a vegan, and why she feels it helps her as creative.
  • How Nicole juggles her busy life as a performer with friendships and maintaining a personal life.
  • Her decision to give up social media, and the impact it’s had on her life.
  • The importance of rest.
  • How Nicole strives to incorporate creativity in her life in other ways.
  • Teaching a master class at a performing arts high school, and a story about the importance of being fearless as an artist.

In addition to her website (which includes upcoming performances), you can find Nicole on Instagram.