Elena Stikhina Interview

Q: What was your first encounter with opera and what made you want to pursue a career in opera?

A: Classical music was always present in our home – my father loved it deeply. One of the earliest recordings I remember was a disc of Olga Borodina singing Rimsky-Korsakov romances. It moved me profoundly.  

The first opera I ever saw live was Carmen in the Yekaterinburg Opera. It was a rather strange experience – the opera was sung in Russian, and we were seated very far from the stage. But even from that distance, I felt the mystery and power of the art form. 

Q: What do you love about Verdi’s music, and what makes Il trovatore a good opera? 

A: Verdi is a master melodist. He always puts the voice first, and singing his music requires excellent technique and a strong sense of legato. There are many reasons why Il trovatore is a great opera – the intricate, suspenseful plot, the instantly recognisable melodies, the stunning arias and duets. 

For me personally, it’s a rare chance to sing an aria with a cabaletta [the showier second section] that is not filled with suffering – and in fact, Leonora’s aria is one of my favourites. It brought me two audience awards in competitions! 

Q: How would you describe Leonora in a few words? Do you share any characteristics with her? 

A: Leonora is young, radiant, passionate and whole-hearted. I admire her integrity and strength – and perhaps, in some moments, I feel we are not so different. 

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received in your career? 

A: The best advice came from my teacher, who once said: ‘I can’t teach you how to sing. Only you can learn that for yourself. I can only show you the path.’ That stayed with me ever since. 

Q: How do you find the right balance between vocal control and navigating the emotional intensity of your soprano roles? 

A: That’s such a good and complex question. Honestly, it’s never easy – and it only comes with experience. It takes time to learn how to fully feel and fully sing at the same time, and still stay centred. 

Q: What other singers have influenced you?

A: I rarely listen to recordings – but I love going to live performances whenever I can. I draw inspiration from colleagues and from the music itself, from the score. That direct experience keeps me connected.

Q: What’s your dream role, or else your favourite role to sing? 

A: It’s hard to say what my ‘dream role’ is right now. But perhaps Norma and Adriana Lecouvreur – because I was supposed to sing them, and both productions were cancelled due to the pandemic. So they remain as dreams – for now.

Q: You made your debut with The Royal Opera as Tosca, in 2021, and returned for Aida in 2022. What are you most looking forward to in returning to Covent Garden?

A: I love this theatre – and what I look forward to most is seeing the wonderful audience again. That connection is truly special.