Opera Grand Rapids presents tenor Zach Borichevsky in the role of Alfredo in the June 14 & 15 production of Italian composer, Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata, at St. Cecilia Music Center. The heartbreaking true story of Parisian courtesan Marie Duplessis, La Traviata is one of the greatest operas of all time. The classic novella inspired the films, Camille, Pretty Woman and Moulin Rouge. Buy tickets here.
Below, Mr. Borichevsky shares some more details about himself and his life on and off the stage.
Where are you originally from?
Suburban Philadelphia, PA
Who has inspired you/been your greatest influence professionally? Why?
Pavarotti is a cliché answer, but he’s the finest vocal technician I’ve ever heard, while also being deeply, yet simply expressive.
Who/what brought you into the world of Opera?
Actually, Andrea Bocelli was my gateway singer—I sang his hit “Con te partirò” in a church basement at age 12 or so.
Where do you live now?
Near Tarrytown, NY, just north of NYC
What are your hobbies when not performing?
I’ve always been a bit of a political junkie (double majored in music and political science), but when I’m not reading or listening to every last piece of wonky policy journalism, I’m keeping up with the Philadelphia Phillies, who are looking formidable in 2019.
What is your favorite Role/Opera/Piece?
Has to be Rodolfo in La bohème.
What are your favorite things about being a professional musician?
Endless variety, yet comforting rituals remain between gigs. Working with new and old brilliant pianist friends, working with an orchestra for the first time, meeting new singer colleagues and seeing old friends after a long absence.
Least favorite?
Long absences from home (will be home a total of 100 days this year)
Where is your favorite place to travel/perform? Why?
Santa Fe is a beautiful place to spend a summer—both my summers there have been restorative (and I got engaged there!).
What performances/plans do you have in the next year?
I’ll be singing with Washington National Opera in the fall and very excited to sing in Rigoletto with my wife in both Nashville and Colorado in the spring/summer.
