Who is an Opera Singer? - The Unease of the Social Media Era and the Weight of Labels

1. Introduction - Unable to Remain Ambiguous

In an era where social media is integrated into our daily lives, musicians also express themselves in their own unique styles.
I have always been interested in this trend, and in fact, I feel more inclined to support it.

However, lately, a sense of 'unease' that I really want to put into words has been building up deep inside me.

It is about the meaning of calling oneself an 'opera singer'.

There are many people who have graduated from music colleges, studied vocal music, and perform in front of others. But when it comes to being called an 'opera singer,' I hesitate to use the title directly.

Perhaps this might come across as a narrow-minded opinion.
I don't want to criticize anyone. Rather, I am writing this note today because I want to face my own feelings.

2. Professional vs. Amateur: Where is the Boundary?

When asked, 'Are you a professional or an amateur?', it is surprisingly difficult to answer.
There is the idea that receiving payment equals being a professional, but there is a world in music that cannot be measured by that alone.

There are people who sing with deep knowledge and skill in earnest, even without pay.
Conversely, there are cases where someone is paid but is still technically lacking.
That is precisely why I feel that responsibility and caution are necessary when using such a title.

3. The Weight of Calling Oneself an 'Opera Singer'

To me, an 'opera singer' is someone who stands on stage for full-length opera productions and continuously works to create a piece alongside directors and conductors.
Even if they are not a prima donna or primo, or even if they are in the chorus,someone who continues to stand on the opera stage as their professionis truly an opera singer.

But in recent years, I have started seeing people on social media who call themselves 'opera singers' simply because they have 'studied one song or one scene from an opera piece'.
And when I see them starting businesses and working as people who 'teach' the general public, I feel conflicted.

Calling oneself whatever one likes is a freedom. I cannot stop anyone from using whatever title they choose.
However, isn't it also important to imagine, 'How would those who know the actual field perceive this?' when seeing that?

4. Social Media and Titles: Is it Pride or Impression You Want to Convey?

On social media, an 'impression' is decided in just a few seconds.
That is perhaps why the title 'opera singer' is a kind of power word, or has a strength that attracts people.

But I feel that if one relies too much on that strength, it might obscure the feelings and history of those who have built their careers in the field.

'I love singing,' 'I want to convey this to people.'
It is fine for anyone to have those feelings.
However, if there is trust and influence to be gained by using a title, shouldn't there be a sincerity that matches it? That is also a thought I carry within me.

5. Conclusion - How I Want to Value My Own Title

I am also one of those singers who signs contracts and attends rehearsals to continue singing on the opera stage several times a year.
The situation of having rehearsals all year round might only be for this year, and I don't know what will happen next year.
That is why I feel it is not right for me to definitively say, 'I am an opera singer.'

As a vocalist and as a singer, I always want to be sincere about the weight of the title I use.

I don't want to blame anyone.
I just think that behind this unease lies a 'respect for those who have cherished music' and a 'responsibility toward expression'.

If there is anyone who has read this note,
I would be happy if you could pause for a moment and think about 'what does it mean to call oneself something?' from your own perspective.

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