'Local societies are key to opera's survival'

2 hours ago

Isabella VeronaNorthamptonshire

News image — Phillip Thomas has worked as a vocal consultant for the BBC, Decca, EMI, Chandos, BMG and Sony

John Lloyd Davies A conductor wearing a patterned green-and-gold jacket stands under stage lighting, holding a baton in one hand while pointing upward with the other. The background is dim, suggesting a concert hall or theatre setting. — Phillip Thomas has worked as a vocal consultant for the BBC, Decca, EMI, Chandos, BMG and Sony

The director of an opera group hopes local societies will keep the genre alive as he retires after 50 years in the industry.

Phillip Thomas has been the music director of the Northampton Opera Group (NOG) since it was established in 2018.

In his vast career spanning five decades, he has been a conductor, accompanist, vocal coach and record producer.

"I believe wholeheartedly that the survival of opera is local [opera societies]," Thomas said.

After playing piano from a young age, he went to his first opera at the age of seven and knew he wanted to make a career out of his love of music.

From beginning his career by selling programmes at the local operatic society, Thomas has worked with well-known artists including Lesley Garrett, Dame Josephine Barstow and Paolo Gavanelli.

Speaking to Bernie Keith on BBC Radio Northampton, Thomas said: "NOG is an amateur course, which I absolutely passionately believe in.

"Without these people and without youngsters [opera] is dead," he added.

John Lloyd Davies A full opera performance on a theatre stage featuring a large choir arranged on tiered risers in the background. A soloist in a red dress is standing at the front. A conductor on a small podium is facing the performers and a pianist is seated at a grand piano to the side. — The members of the group have a diverse range of ages and backgrounds

NOG was created due to a lack of opportunities for opera enthusiasts in the county.

The group's first performance was at the Royal and Derngate theatre in Northampton and, as a final send-off for Thomas, NOG's performance of Madama Butterfly took place there over the weekend.

"It's a full circle moment.

"[The group] has been fabulous," he added.

NOG looks for local talent to be a part of the chorus. It offers workshops and training for the next generation of singers to ensure the genre thrives.

The group has had a diverse range of backgrounds and ages, from as young as 16 to late 70s.