Rita- a fabulous teacher and friend. Many hearts are broken today. Our beautiful, sunny Rita was taken from us way too early. She has given so much to her many students, not to mention what she gave to the opera world, with her spectacular and matchless singing. As I stood waiting for my flight at Newark last week, after a few precious days with her, I looked down at my carry-on luggage and had to smile. I never truly realized the scope of her influence. Rita said that Longchamp luggage was the only way to go, so I obeyed. She helped me pick out my wedding dress. I went to her dentist, ENT, massage therapist, acupuncturist in Chinatown, and if I ever find myself in need of one, I will know where to buy the most supportive bra. We shared a love of chintz, blue and white china, and Jane Austen novels. She gave of herself so generously to her students, much like a mother. She never scolded when we went months without calling, and only gave us loving correction when we rebelled. (What are you doing with your palate? Get a pencil!) I gave her the nickname “Right-uh” because she would always fix me when I was out of whack. She truly was always right! I wanted to smack her so many times when she would pop out the highest notes in our lessons without a bit of effort. She was amazing. It feels a bit shallow to talk about the singing, but I realize that the relationship she had with her students was so much more intimate than just imparting a technique. She was a force of positivity and encouragement. She only believed in us. She ALWAYS believed in us. She nurtured in us the courage it takes to bare your soul on stage. She recently got me through an incredibly difficult performance. I was in tears in the dressing room, so afraid to go on for the second act. She got down to work, made me get on the floor and sing through the upcoming scene and said, as she did often, “Just go do your job!” She was tough but always kind. She gave without expecting anything in return. She weathered some of life’s most difficult trials without giving in to bitterness and self-pity, but emerging as a beacon of perseverance and joyfulness. Her energy and vivacious spirit were infectious. I will miss her hearty laugh so much. I will never forget her hilarious comment to me after I was whining about a hateful review from the lovely A.M. It wasn’t very politically correct but it was awesome. Ask me about it someday. I really don’t know what I will do without her. She is irreplaceable. She taught me so much- first and foremost, the E vowel is my friend. And so was she. I love you Rita.
Posted on: Fri, 10 Oct 2014 18:55:28 +0000
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