The inspiring journey of María Castillo, Teatro Colón's pioneer transgender soprano
From Felipe to María: embracing identity and transforming a career.
In the heart of Buenos Aires, the iconic Teatro Colón has long been a bastion of operatic excellence, a stage that has witnessed the triumphs of countless renowned sopranos. But in recent years, this hallowed institution has welcomed a truly remarkable artist: María Castillo, the first openly transgender soprano to grace its hallowed halls.
Maria’s path to the top of the opera world has been extraordinary. Born Felipe Castillo, she grew up in the impoverished outskirts of La Plata, the daughter of a construction worker and a cook. Despite the challenges of her early life, Maria’s passion for music burned brightly and she began her musical training as a self-taught pianist, honing her skills on the abandoned piano in her high school auditorium.
It was during these formative years that Maria discovered her extraordinary vocal range, able to move effortlessly from tenor to soprano register. “I already knew I had it,” she recalls, ”but at the time I didn’t even know I was going to be a singer.” Instead, Maria immersed herself in the world of music composition, creating nearly 100 songs when she was just 16 years old.
Breaking barriers: the challenges of being a transgender opera singer
As her musical talent blossomed, Maria faced a crucial decision: to accept her true identity as a woman and pursue her dreams as a soprano. It was no easy task, as the opera world has always been steeped in tradition and convention, and often resists change.
“The opera world is a very traditional, serious, male-dominated environment,” Maria explains. “There are so many protocols and conventions that have been in place for centuries. It’s a challenge for anyone, and even more so for a transgender person, to make a space for themselves and be taken seriously.”
However, Maria was undeterred. With unwavering determination, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery, navigating the complexities of her gender identity and the transition process. “It was a psychological process for me,” he reflects. “I went from being Philip, the tenor, to becoming Maria, the soprano. It was a transformation that took several years.”
Maria’s perseverance paid off when, in 2016, she was given the opportunity to play a small soprano role in Teatro Colón’s production of Madame Butterfly. This defining moment was a testament to her talent and growing acceptance within the opera community.
Mastering the dual registers: a unique and captivating talent.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Maria’s artistry is her ability to seamlessly transition between the tenor and soprano registers. This unique and captivating talent has earned her the admiration of her peers, including renowned soprano Maria Guleghina, who encouraged her to embrace and showcase this unique gift.
“She told me, ‘You have to do this, use both voices,’” Maria recounts. “She told me, ‘You, as a woman, are already a woman in the world, but you have to think of your voice as a musical instrument. The piano, the guitar, the bass, they’re not masculine or feminine, they’re just instruments. And the voice is the most perfect of all’”.
Maria’s mastery of the tenor and soprano registers is a testament to her exceptional vocal control and deep understanding of the technical nuances of operatic singing. “The soprano is the highest pitched female voice, while the tenor is the highest pitched male voice,” she explains. “But the tessitura, the register, is the same, just an octave different.”
By seamlessly transitioning between these two distinct vocal registers, Maria has created a truly unique and captivating performing style. Her ability to switch effortlessly between the masculine and feminine tones of her voice has been described as a fascinating and transformative experience for audiences.
Embracing the Classics: Breathing New Life into Beloved Operas
As a classically trained opera singer, Maria has dedicated herself to performing some of the most beloved works in the operatic canon. From the dramatic intensity of Puccini’s Tosca to the bel canto brilliance of Bellini’s Norma, Maria has proven herself a master of the operatic repertoire.
In her latest performances of Norma, Maria has captivated audiences with her powerful and emotional interpretations of the title role. “Norma is an incredibly demanding opera, both vocally and dramatically,” she explains. “It’s a role that some of the greatest sopranos in history have tackled, and to be able to take on that challenge is a real honor.”
But Maria’s artistic vision extends beyond the traditional operatic canon. She has also embraced the rich tapestry of Latin American music, including the poetry of Juana de Ibarbourou and the soulful melodies of the African-American spiritual tradition. By infusing these diverse influences into her interpretations, Maria has created a truly unique and captivating artistic voice.
Inspiring the Next Generation: The Legacy of Maria Castillo
As Maria Castillo continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of opera, she has also become a powerful role model for aspiring artists, particularly those within the LGBTQ+ community.
Her journey from Philip to Mary serves as a testament to the transformative power of self-acceptance and the courage to embrace one’s true identity.
By breaking down barriers and shattering stereotypes, Maria has paved the way for other transgender people to pursue their artistic dreams, knowing that their voices and stories deserve to be heard.
Her unwavering dedication to her art and her willingness to explore the full range of her vocal abilities have inspired musicians and opera lovers alike, reminding us that the true essence of art lies in the limitless expression of the human spirit.
María Castillo continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of opera. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the transformative nature of self-discovery and the universal language of music that transcends all barriers.