As we gear up for our Grand Voices: The Tulsa Opera Chorus in Concert concert, we’re shining a spotlight on Todd Maxwell, the longest-standing member of the Tulsa Opera Chorus to sing in the production. With over three decades of dedication, Todd’s journey with Tulsa Opera has been filled with memorable moments, personal milestones, and a deep love for opera. Read on as Todd shares his experiences with the chorus and his lifelong passion for music in our exclusive interview.
Tulsa Opera: What was the first opera you performed with Tulsa Opera, and what do you remember most about that experience?
Todd Maxwell: The first opera I was in was La bohème in 1989. The chorus was entirely a volunteer organization then, and they needed to fill it out a bit for that second act that features the chorus so much. Laven Sowell, the legendary chorus master, auditioned some high school students to see if they could contribute. I was lucky to be with a handful of students that got to participate. I learned so much about music and singing, but the most eye-opening part was seeing a professional crew and stage managers work.
TO: How did you get started in music, and what led you to become involved with Tulsa Opera?
TM: I sang in church choirs and the Tulsa Boy Singers as a child, but the credit for my love of opera goes to my grandparents, who were season ticket holders, and to the Tulsa Opera education and outreach programs. They came to my school and taught us some music and short scenes. I can remember singing Escamillo from Carmen in English as a boy soprano.
TO: Who was the most exciting performer or conductor you’ve had the opportunity to work with through Tulsa Opera?
TM: Stephanie Blythe singing Carmen here. At one point, she grabbed me and sang the Habanera right into my face!
TO: What has been your favorite production during your time with the Tulsa Opera Chorus, and why?
TM: I have to say Carmen in 1999. It’s when I met my future wife, Christina.
TO: Over the years, you’ve worked with many staging directors. Who has been your favorite, and what made their approach stand out to you?
TM: This is a difficult choice. I will narrow it down to Tulsa’s own Stanley Garner (Aïda 2013 & 1997, Norma 2011, Lucia di Lammermoor 2009, La bohème 2008, La traviata 1996), whose rehearsals were like a well-oiled machine, and Tara Faircloth (Into the Woods 2023, La fille du régiment 2012, Il barbiere di Siviglia 2011, Hänsel und Gretel 2009), who can create such joy and humor on stage.
TO: How has your perspective on opera and performance evolved since your first time on the Tulsa Opera stage?
TM: Well, I hope I have improved in my performance over the years, but I still get just as excited as I used to. The thrill of rehearsing with the orchestra for the first time or hearing that call to ‘Places’ is still there.
TO: Do you have any traditions or rituals you do before going on stage?
TM: We had an assistant stage manager from the 2000s that would tell us to be ‘quiet like little bunnies.’ I still whisper that backstage at least once every production, even if no one knows what I’m talking about.
TO: What has been the most rewarding part of being a long-standing member of the Tulsa Opera Chorus?
TM: I have gotten to know Tulsa Opera inside and out over the last 35 years, and I am privileged to be part of its legacy. I have met so many people who love this art form, from the chorus, the staff and directors, and the audience. This institution is part of Tulsa’s culture, and it means a great deal to me to share it.
Join us on October 19th to see Todd Maxwell and the entire Tulsa Opera Chorus perform in Grand Voices, kicking off our 2024-25 season. It’s a night you won’t want to miss! Tickets are available at tulsaopera.com/grand-voices or by calling 918.582.3133.