"Multiplication by Zero" (xO)

If one tries to multiply a number or combination of numbers by zero the result is always zero. This fascinating fact was transferred to the making of an operatic career by the famous impresario and teacher, Boris Goldovsky. He reasoned that there are many components necessary to becoming a successful opera singer - voice, musicality, acting ability, linguistic talent, creativity, collegiality, etc. - and that if any one of these components measured zero, it would, in effect, nullify the career chances of a singer.

Goldovsky's usual example was the young Mario Lanza as an unknown, who, despite all efforts made on his behalf, was unable to learn music except by imitation. Lanza, of course, went on to have a dazzling career in the movies where his name became a household word, but he was never a real opera singer and did not have an operatic career.

Besides the components of talent cited above, we may examine some personal attributes that are indispensable for the study of any vocation - intelligence, discipline, perseverance and desire - to name just a few. Application of any or all of these assets will insure further development of the talent components and in some cases, will take the individual further than anyone ever dreamed possible.

Add to all of the above a strong personality with a healthy dose of charisma and good sense of self-worth and we will certainly see positive growth, possibly for a lifetime. The lesson here is one of objective assessment of one's strengths and weaknesses. Addressing one's weaknesses is usually not a pleasant occupation, but dealing with them and turning them into strengths is one of the most important things anyone can do in life.

In the end, was Mario Lanza a success or a failure? Obviously he was a success, but he had to find the niche that was appropriate for his individual talent. It wasn't in opera, the first field he tried, but he didn't stop singing because of the first defeat. We can all profit from this example.

Kathryn Cathcart
Opera Coach & Conductor
San Francisco Opera & Conservatory of Music

From Kathryn Cathcart's PTO lecture
on October 7, 2000