When Francis Poulenc wrote his Gloria, he created something unusual: sacred music that feels joyful, playful, and unexpectedly human. We spoke with soprano soloist Christine Graham about the music, performing with orchestra and chorus, and a few fun behind-the-scenes details about life as a singer.
Q:First things first — how would you describe Poulenc’s Gloria to someone hearing it for the first time?
A: I’m pretty sure John Williams was listening to this work around the same time he wrote the Star Wars soundtrack.
Q:The soprano solos in the piece are very exposed and lyrical. What is it like to sing them?
A: It’s fun, but it can be vulnerable at certain points. The soprano gets the last word, though!
Q:What first drew you to singing?
A: It’s hard to say, but I was fortunate to go to public schools with robust music programs and competent, supportive teachers.
Q:Do you have any pre-concert rituals before performing?
A: Housework! It gets your body moving without being too strenuous, then after the show you come home to a clean house.
Q:Poulenc’s music sometimes surprises listeners. Are there moments in the Gloria audiences might not expect?
A: There are several “Ahh….” moments where the chords resolve in beautifully unexpected ways. And there’s one jump-scare “Ah!” moment, too!
Q:When you’re not performing, how do you like to spend your time?
A: I have a very cool job as a voice professor at Northern Arizona University that keeps me rather busy. 😉 I also enjoy going to movies with my friends, hiking, and hanging out with my cats.
Q:What’s one piece of music you love that might surprise people?
A: I can’t think of one piece in particular, but my record collection pretty much consists of alternative rock from the late 20th century.
Q:If you could describe Poulenc’s Gloria in three words, what would they be?
A: Ethereal, Goofy, Jubilant
Don’t Miss It!
Hear Christine Graham perform Poulenc’s Gloria with the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra on Friday, April 17th at 7:30pm in NAU’s Ardrey Auditorium.
