#1
Posted: 12/29/04 at 5:21pm
The message board has a thread on divas. It got me thinking about diva behaviour. The most bizarre diva performance I can remember was by Kathleen Battle. She gave a recital in Melbourne a year, or two, ago. It was part of an Australian tour. Her regular accompanist had not arrived for this tour.
The lady who took the stage so bravely in Melbourne was an accomplished musician and regular, and in-demand, accompanist for operetic competition. However, Ms. Battle chose to treat her as a wayward piano student. Battle stopped dead on several occasions to discuss things with the pianist. She would then demand quiet and pose, eyes closed. The performance continued. She then started to tap out the tempo with her foot. Now, there was nothing wrong with the tempo. But, after a while Ms. Battle moved to the piano and started marking time on the side of the piano. Oh no, would they come to blows? The large audience was grateful that Battle's last section was a cappella. The accompanist received a wonderful reception at the bows.
While Battle's ability is undeniable, her behavior during this performance was amazing. A true diva. Anyone else with a similar tale?
The lady who took the stage so bravely in Melbourne was an accomplished musician and regular, and in-demand, accompanist for operetic competition. However, Ms. Battle chose to treat her as a wayward piano student. Battle stopped dead on several occasions to discuss things with the pianist. She would then demand quiet and pose, eyes closed. The performance continued. She then started to tap out the tempo with her foot. Now, there was nothing wrong with the tempo. But, after a while Ms. Battle moved to the piano and started marking time on the side of the piano. Oh no, would they come to blows? The large audience was grateful that Battle's last section was a cappella. The accompanist received a wonderful reception at the bows.
While Battle's ability is undeniable, her behavior during this performance was amazing. A true diva. Anyone else with a similar tale?
'Try not to have a good time...this is supposed to be educational.' - Lucy Van Pelt
