Opera and Steel: Introducing Joslynne Sealey

TORONTO, ON, Canada: Having made its international debut on August 8th, 2015 in Trinidad, Joslynne Sealey – Famous Arias has fulfilled her fans’ requests for a definitive CD of her operatic vocal work. Throughout her circa 25-year-career of singing professionally, she is most proud of her collaborations with Trinidad & Tobago’s national instrument; the steelpan.

Proudly featured on her CD are six collaborations between Sealey and Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra. They invited her to be a featured performer at their biennial gala Christmas concerts, “Classical Jewels” (1979, 1981 and 1983). Their relationship was so harmonious that All Stars invited Sealey to accompany them on their tours to Toronto, and to the UK. She recounts memories from those international tours on her CD.

Additionally, Sealey was a member of the only Caribbean operatic team sent to a Carifesta. This four-person team represented Trinidad & Tobago at Carifesta IV (Barbados; 1981). Three of her “live” performances at Carifesta IV are featured on her CD with accompaniment by Lindyann Bodden-Ritch (piano), and Patrick Flores (tenor).

Last but not least, this CD concludes with a recording of Sealey singing “I’ll Have Revenge” (from Mozart’s “The Magic Flute”). She explains the significance of this aria in the penultimate, conversational track on her CD. Rumoured to be the most difficult aria for a soprano voice, Sealey addresses this aria with passion and expertise. FYI: this aria is her fans’ favourite!

TESTIMONIALS

It’s a great record. I really enjoyed her voice and accuracy!
Etienne Charles

This unique CD compilation is long overdue. Joslynne’s voice is a T&T national treasure.
Alvin Daniell; Producer, Lyricist, and Cultural Researcher – MAJOR & minor Productions Ltd.

Joslynne Sealey’s album overturns the notion that only calypso and reggae come from the Caribbean. This CD is a rare and exquisite delight!
Nathalie Taghaboni; Author, and Photographer-Journalist

What a nice slice of history from one on T&T’s “cultural icons.” So often we fail to document the unique work of T&T artists, especially where it involves the steel pan. Luckily, some lovely moments in the country’s cultural history are captured on Joslynne Sealey’s new CD, and given wings on a soaring voice!
Anthony Pierre; Percussionist and Bandleader – KALABASH

The stunning operatic vocals by Joslynne Sealey, plus the sophisticated accompaniment from Trinidad All Stars, results in a combined musical delight! And if you like this type of music, then this CD will be a treat for you … as it was for me!
Jai Ojah Maharaj; Broadcaster and Program Producer – CHIN Radio, Toronto (1981 – 2015)

This CD transported me into a wonderful musical opera concert; especially listening to Rejoice Greatly. Indeed, all the steelpan arrangements were well executed. I experienced a marvelous and proud feeling about our national instrument’s capabilities exemplified by the well-known, award-winning steel band, Trinidad All Stars. And last but not least, I was left speechless by the talent of Joslynne Sealey’s voice. A remarkable CD!!!
Wendy Jones; Bandleader – PAN FANTASY, and Executive Director – PAN ARTS NETWORK