High Notes and Anecdotes

Ep 45 - Hey friends! Can you believe season two has actually wrapped up? We recorded a cheeky bonus encore where Helena and Adam trade backstage stories from Adelaide, ridiculous rehearsal moments (yes, pelvic thrusts feature) and a delightfully silly IMAGINARY heist involving the skills of our 2026 season 2 guests. For legal reasons, we DEFINITELY didn't plan a heist of the Louvre...

Ep 44 - It’s the end-of-season party you didn’t know you needed: Helena and Adam bring back their favorite tenors for Tim Tam chaos, geeky banter and more backstage opera shenanigans than anyone can handle. Expect ridiculous aria mashups (Wombles, Fresh Prince and yes, Barbie Girl meet opera), true-or-false showdowns about tight trousers and vowel tricks, and a totally serious plan to rob the Louvre involving a ninja, a locksmith and a sneaky Santa. Grab a cuppa, tune in, and enjoy this absolutely bonkers, warm and silly finale — and PS, there might be a mini bonus episode next week...

Ep 43 - Friends! Join Helena and Adam as they sit down with the irrepressible Rose Chong, the costume-maker extraordinaire who’s dressed divas, made giant cupcakes and turned Fitzroy into a veritable treasure trove of theatrical magic. Expect fascinating stories, the joys of reinventing old fabrics, practical costume wisdom for performers and a warm, funny chat!

Episode 42 - Hey friends! Tune in to Helena and Adam’s chat with Declan Costello, the choral scholar-turned-laryngologist who explains vocal health in plain, caring terms: baseline scopes, stroboscopy, reflux, aging voices, and how to tell the psychological from the physical. Don't miss it!

Ep 41 - Join Helena and Adam as they catch up with Tanja Binggeli the Berlin-based German language coach who makes German sing as beautifully as Italian. Helena and Adam dig into her accidental career, rehearsal-room tales, coaching hacks and even a surprising love of garlic. It’s warm, nerdy, funny and full of practical tips to help singers sound and be their best.

Ep 40 - Hi friends! Grab a cuppa and join Helena, Adam and the legendary Tony Legge for a behind-the-scenes chat about bel canto, the boring-but-brilliant exercises that actually save your voice and the wild stories that happen in rehearsals and auditions. Don't miss this one!

Ep 39 - Helena and Adam sit down with Caitlin Vincent, author of Opera Wars, for a chat that's equal parts love letter and expose. There are high notes, audition nightmares, messy rehearsal-room gossip and big questions about who opera is by and for. Warm, funny and full of insider stories, this episode makes opera feel human. It's perfect if you love it, want to understand it, or just enjoy a juicy behind-the-scenes story.

Ep 38 - Friends! Don't miss this chat as Helena and Adam catch up with the hilarious, generous and thoughtful, Michael Lapina, who just happens to also be a world-class tenor! Michael spills stories about starting at Disney, juggling 3D printers and how Rotary helped him create real opportunities for young singers and the community. It’s warm, nerdy and full of practical inspiration.

Episode 37 -  Friends! Helena and Adam back for 2026 and catching up on the past couple of months: think backyard barbies, the world’s sexiest mac and cheese and a glorious performance of Gilbert & Sullivan at the Palais. We trade hilarious backstage stories from Spain, festival chaos and surreal memories from London, before diving into what’s coming up for the year. Grab a drink, get comfy and come along for the ride! It’s a season full of passion, pratfalls and plenty of operatic goodness.

Episode 36 - Hey friends! Welcome to our festive season wrap! Helena and Adam get silly, swap stories from a wild year of opera and podcasting and dish on highlights, humiliations and big life moments (think moving house, role debuts and embarrassing gym tales). Grab your seasonal drink of choice and join us for a warm, laugh-out-loud look back at the year. Merry Christmas and we'll see you on the other side!

Episode 35 - Hi friends! We had the most inspiring chat with Melissa Wegner, Executive Director with the Metropolitan Opera's Lindemann Young Artist Development Program and the Laffont Competition. She walks us through international outreach, how the Met picks and develops singers and why mentorship, mental health and practical skills all matter, just as much as talent. If you’re an aspiring singer, you’ll love her clear audition checklist (voice, musicianship, interpretation and career potential), plus reality checks about covers, timing and when to jump into the professional world. She also explains the newer, kinder side of industry training: financial coaching, performance psychology, intimacy coordinators and real community support. Tune in for honest, friendly and super-useful advice whether you’re auditioning, considering a young artist program, or just want an insight into how singers can thrive in this wild opera life.

Episode 34 - Hey friends! Come hang with Helena and Adam as they catch up for a meandering chat: from hilarious Aussie lingo (like the Poddy) to TikTok triumphs and the importance of great repetiteurs. We get the tea on viral videos, strange fan mail, masterclasses with young performers and even nude stage stories. Tune in and laugh along.

Episode 33 - Hi friends! Jump on in to this thoughtful, laugh-out-loud conversation with David Hobson as he shares tales of writing a rock opera version of Macbeth, swinging metres above a stage without a net and the time a hubcap doubled as a bonnet. It’s full of backstage madness, career pivots and genuine advice for young singers. Expect candid stories about touring, teaching, authenticity in performance and why great artists keep learning. Don't miss this one!

Episode 32 - If you’re into behind-the-scenes opera gossip, this episode is for you. We hang out with Gerard Quinn and Chloe Morgan as they unpack life in Germany’s Fest system: the crazy rehearsal hours, costume nightmares, language mishaps and that infamous director who had everyone talking. Expect high notes, wild backstage moments and honest talk about surviving and thriving in the Fest life.

Episode 31 - Watch out! We jumped in the car, braved the rain and took you straight into the Melbourne Recital Centre for the Herald Sun Aria final. Expect backstage vibes, on-road banter and honest takes on six incredible young singers. There’s talk about conductor magic, judging pressure and how repertoire and orchestra placement can change everything. Grab some road trip snacks and join us!

Episode 30 - Welcome back, friends! Catch up with Simon Lobelson, baritone, conductor, teacher and "angry fiddler" as he chats to Helena and Adam about Mozart obsessions, contemporary opera surprises and the honest lessons he gives to young singers. Tune in for warm laughs, practical teaching gems and delightfully weird stories from the stage (think Kafka insects, squeaks, burps and farts). It’s a cozy chat with a great mate. Don't miss this one.

Ep 29 - Helena and Adam are back for a mischievous chat with Helen Hogh: artist manager, custard tart courier and the kind of honest, fiercely-caring person every singer hopes for. You’ll hear about the messy, human side of helping manage careers, like turning down gigs, holding artists’ hands after performances and why a good manager is basically your backstage superhero. It’s funny, candid and full of fascinating insights. Tiaras and Tanqueray even make cameos.

Episode 28 - Today it's just Helena and Adam and it's like you're just hanging out with us while we talk about upcoming gigs, oratorio and Helena's new teaching studio. We trade Aussie food hot takes (dim sims, mushy peas and pie floaters) and reminisce about touring pranks and backstage hijinks. Come for the opera gossip, stay for the laughs and don't miss Bastien's cameo at the end...

Episode 27 - Hey friends! Join Helena and Adam as they hang out with Wagnerian superstars, Christine Goerke and Brian Mulligan. The conversation wanders from crocodile-headed costumes and cupcake mishaps to mozzarella-in-the-dressing-room survival hacks. They get real about finding the right repertoire, the terrifying-but-beautiful leap into Wagner and the backstage camaraderie that keeps you going through four-hour marathons. Funny, warm and full of oddly specific opera life hacks, you’ll laugh, you’ll learn and you might never hear a duck noise the same way again.

Episode 26 - Hi friends! Don't miss Helena and Adam's fascinating chat with the brilliant conductor, Ben Northey. He tells stories from his jam-packed life on podiums around the world, including that now-famous mallet catch, how opera is its own glorious chaos and why great conducting is really about connecting people, not just waving arms. We chat about mentoring, bringing Indigenous voices to the orchestral stage, managing an insane schedule and little rehearsal tricks that actually work. It’s warm, funny and full of behind-the-scenes gold. Tune in if you love music, want to understand what a conductor really does, or just want a brilliant, honest conversation with someone who’s living at full tilt.

Episode 25 - Hey friends! We're back for Season 2! Join Helena and Adam as they kick off the new season with the fabulous actor, director and producer, Melanie Hillman. They chat about Mel's new Sondheim revue, Colour and Light, and the joys of reworking classics. It’s full of rehearsal gossip, pandemic-era logistics and important takes on casting and representation. It's witty and nerdy in the best way - perfect for anyone who loves theatre, Sondheim or a good backstage story.

Episode 24 - Hey there, friends! Grab a comfy spot because it's the Season 1 Finale and we've got a whirlwind of opera shenanigans waiting for you. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of laughs and a lot of high notes, literally! This time, we’ve pitted tenor against tenor in a game show format! It's the brilliant Henry Choo, the hilarious Mark Cunningham and the amazing Christopher Turner in a head-to-head operatic showdown. We've got custom buzzers, impromptu jams and some cheeky confessions. From barns to unexpected onstage nudity, our talented tenors spill all the tea. And yes, there’s a chat on eating pizza! It's definitely an episode packed with moments you won't want to miss. Listen in and we'll be back with Season 2 in September!

Episode 23 - Hey there! This episode is an absolute delight as we sit down with the brilliant Adrian Tamburini. From his journey across opera stages to starring as Hades in 'Hadestown' in Australia, Adrian opens up about his diverse career and love for music. You'll hear about his unique voice journey, shaping roles and how he connects with audiences. Adrian shares the challenges of an eight-show week, his magical moments on stage and he wades in on the great pizza cutlery debate. As a gifted mentor, he also talks about the art of teaching and the transformative power of singing. It's personal, fun and certain to leave you inspired! Don't miss out on this musical adventure!

Episode 22 - Hi friends! Wow, do we have an episode for you! With just 2 more episode to go in season 1, Adam and Helena chat about her epic 22-year adventure in the UK, filled with thrilling opera performances, quirky accommodation tales and a citizenship ceremony! In this special installment, Helena shares her announcement about moving back to Australia and what it means for her career and personal life. We reminisce about our days at the Royal Academy of Music, share laughs over Helena's move into the 'noisy building', and delve into what it’s like packing up over two decades of life abroad. So, come join the chat, as Helena and Adam laugh, reflect, and navigate the rollercoaster that is an artist's life.

Episode 21 - Hey there, friends! Dive into this episode where we chat with the fascinating and inspiring Sharon Kempton, a renowned Australian opera singer and performance coach now based in Germany. We discuss Sharon's incredible journey from Australia to the vibrant opera scene in Germany and Sharon shares her unique approach to mindset coaching as she helps performers and other professionals overcome barriers to reach new heights in their careers. Her stories are not only motivational but offer valuable insights for anyone looking to enhance their skills and self-confidence. Curious about what it takes to thrive in the opera world and beyond with the right mindset? Tune in to find loads of laughs, lessons and lovely conversations!

Episode 20 - Hey there, friends! We're thrilled to have you join us in this fun and thought-provoking episode. We've got a special guest, Theresa Borg, who's a powerhouse in Australia's performing arts scene. Theresa wears many hats as a director, writer, artistic director and performer, and she’s here to share some fascinating insights with us. This episode is loaded with laughter and some seriously interesting discussions about opera, theatre and Theresa’s journey. We even dabble in the absurdity of certain operatic storylines and ponder how to inject a bit more fun and logic into them. So, if you're curious about the magic behind the curtain, the secrets of standing still while singing or how to seamlessly integrate orcs and ukuleles into a performance, you've come to the right place. Hit play and let’s get started!

Episode 19 - Hey there, friends! Ready for a fascinating episode about vocal health? Join us as we chat with the multi-talented Samantha U'Ren, a speech pathologist with an opera singing background. Samantha shares her unique insights into vocal health, diving deep into her journey from singing to speech pathology and the important lessons learned along the way. Discover why your voice can lead you to incredible opportunities or unexpected situations, like Helena’s high-note escape from a tricky scenario! Learn about the realities of using corticosteroids for vocal issues, the importance of getting your voice checked by professionals and what exercises are good look after your vocal cords. You'll hear personal stories, tips, and plenty of laughs in this episode that's not only informative but fun! Whether you’re a singer, teacher or just a lover of good stories, you’re guaranteed to learn something new. So grab your favourite drink, get comfy and listen in.

Episode 18 - Hi friends! You're in for a real laugh in this episode, featuring the incredible mezzo-soprano Jamie Barton. Helena, Adam and Jamie dive into some seriously delightful mischief, including rubber ducks, questionable drawing skills, and garlic noodles. It's a cocktail of high notes, high jinks and heartwarming stories that will leave you smiling. Whether you're an opera aficionado or just someone who loves a good laugh, this episode has it all. From memories at the Met to designing the ultimate Jamie Barton dinner party, the banter is irresistibly charming. Trust me, you won't want to miss a second! 🎶🐤❤️

Episode 17 - Hey there! Join Helena, our mischievous operatic soprano, and Adam, our former opera singer turned producer, as they dive into the world of live performance where the show must always go on. In this episode, they tackle the art of staying in the moment amidst life's chaos and share candid stories about the unpredictable nature of live music, from giggle-inducing audience interactions to tales of personal resilience. Whether you're in the industry or just adore the vibrant world of opera, there's something here for you. So, grab your favourite snack and tune in for a mix of real conversation and lots of laughs!

Episode 16 - Hey there! So, Helena is currently in the vibrant heart of Madrid, living her best opera singer life. Imagine waking up to views of the Royal Palace and diving headfirst into Spain's unique and bustling culture. It's been quite the experience between her having multilingual convos, sampling local foods and learning new music, all while navigating rehearsals that stretch well into the night. Listen in to hear all about her journey so far!

Episode 15 - Hey there! We're back with another fun episode from Helena Dix, international opera singer known for singing spectacular high notes and Adam Miller, former opera singer known for getting stuck in trees while singing high notes. Today they chat about the challenges of staying motivated amid life's chaos. Join us for a cozy conversation sprinkled with laughs, stories of resilience, and perhaps a few tips on overcoming those tempting Netflix marathons. Whether you're an opera fan or just in need of a motivational boost, this episode will leave you smiling.

Episode 14 - Hi there, friends! 🎶 Welcome back to our operatic meandering chats. This episode continues the fascinating conversation with Sarah Playfair, legendary British casting director, who has lent her Midas touch to nearly every major opera institution in the UK. She shares tales of her journey from being a dresser for the iconic Sir Ian McKellen to the world of opera casting. Her stories about casting debates and backstage opera secrets are sure to keep you glued to your favourite podcast app! So grab a cup of tea (or a piece of pizza, knife and fork optional 😉) and settle in for an episode filled with warmth, laughter, and a treasure trove of insights. 

Episode 13 - Hey there! Get cozy because you're in for a treat today. We're diving into an incredibly funny and fascinating episode featuring Sarah Playfair, legendary British opera casting director. Her stories from decades in the industry are simply captivating. Join us as Helena Dix, globetrotting operatic soprano, and Adam Miller, opera singer turned producer, writer, and director, chat with Sarah about her remarkable experiences. From working on Kenneth Branagh's 'The Magic Flute' to her thoughts on the importance of a singer's online presence in today's digital age, it's a deep dive into the heart of casting. You'll hear surprising audition tales, her perspectives on the industry's evolution, and what it really takes to stand out. So, if you're curious about the behind-the-scenes magic of opera casting, this episode is definitely for you!

Episode 12 - Hey there! Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of opera with Helena Dix and Adam Miller. In this episode, we explore the unpredictable journey of staying healthy as a performer – and yes, we even talk about mismatched socks and bizarre pre-show rituals! From the funny to the slightly weird, this episode has it all. Plus, find out what it's like when your career is your greatest passion, and health becomes your biggest challenge. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a peek behind the curtain of an opera singer's life. Enjoy!

Episode 11 - Hey there! Join Helena Dix and Adam Miller in this fascinating episode as they share stories and unique perspectives from the world of opera. Today they discuss their experiences navigating the tightrope of competitions and the often daunting world of criticism. It’s a candid chat about the art of resilience, adorned with nostalgia and laughter. Get an insider's look at what it was like for Helena to perform in international competitions, including some eyebrow-raising adjudicator encounters. A must-listen for anyone curious about the world of competitive music making. Enjoy!

Episode 10 - Hey there! Dive into an episode bursting with laughter and fascinating stories as Helena Dix and Adam Miller sit down with the vibrant Mexican tenor, Eleazar Rodriguez. Renowned for his exciting portrayals across the globe, Eleazar shares tales from backstage chaos, his journey from the home of nachos to opera stages, and his rise to social media fame. Discover what really happens during opera jump-ins and get ready to giggle at some of his funniest stage moments. It's a candid, insightful and feel-good chat you won't want to miss!

Episode 9 - Hey friends! Welcome back to another fun-filled episode of laughter, high notes, and insightful conversations! 🎶 Today, we're thrilled to chat with Irish director, author, podcaster and educator Conor Hanratty. Conor, renowned for his interdisciplinary approach to directing opera and theatre, takes us on a journey from his work in Ireland to the global stage. We delve into his inspirations drawn from studying under renowned director Ninagawa Yukio in Japan and what it means to balance the cosmic mystery of Mercury in retrograde with a harmonious life in the theatrical world. Whether you're an opera aficionado, a Shakespeare enthusiast, or just tuning in for the banter, sit back and enjoy the magic of storytelling and the passion that goes into creating breathtaking performances.

Episode 8 - Hey there! Welcome back, friends! In this episode, we dive into a fascinating conversation with Dr. Trevor Jones, a multi-talented force of nature in the music world. Known for his work as a conductor, pianist, singer and educator, Trevor shares insights about his diverse career and his journey across various musical genres. He's got a reputation for his engaging performances and collaborations, and he's here to discuss everything from conducting to the beautiful, blurry lines between opera and musical theatre. The chat is filled with laughter, stories, and some tales of forgotten lyrics. So, if you're curious about how to balance a multi-talented career in music, or if you're just up for some great stories and laughs, you're in for a treat. Enjoy the episode!

Episode 7 - Hey there! Adam and Helena are back, sharing stories from opera stages to kitchens around the world. Join them for a flavour-filled chat, as they explore everything from bacon-infused beverages to the perfect slice of pizza in Milan. Ready to get hungry? Grab your knife and fork—preferably not for pizza—and enjoy!

Episode 6 - Hey there! In this episode, Adam and Helena dive into their whirlwind journeys around the world. From (nearly) missed flights and vanishing luggage to ingenious travel hacks like carrying a steamer that looks suspiciously like... something else, this episode is a treasure trove of tips and tales for travellers. Join us for a few laughs, some surprising stories, and advice you didn't know you needed. Happy travels, friends!

Episode 5 - Hey there! Join us for our favourite episode yet where we chat with the incredibly talented singer, actor and raconteur, Eddie Muliaumasealii. Eddie spills the beans on his journey from New Zealand to performing on stages worldwide, sharing some of the funniest behind-the-scenes moments you'll ever hear. It's his first podcast, and we're thrilled to be part of his podcasting debut! Get ready for a lot of laughs and some honest insights into the life of an opera singer. From hilarious stories about rugby-tackling colleagues to his unique pre-show routines, Eddie has it all. You won't want to miss this! It's catching up with a dear friend, with a side of opera drama, in the best way possible. Can't wait for you to listen in!

Episode 4 - Hey there! Helena and Adam here! In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of masterclasses, coaching, and the lifelong learning. We reminisce about some hideous and hilarious alternate names we considered for this podcast - trust us, you’ll want to hear why we settled on ‘High Notes and Anecdotes’! Join us for an honest conversation about our experiences and insights, sprinkled with laughter, as we explore how great coaching can transform a performer’s journey. Whether it’s taking on a new language, exploring eyebrow acting or refining technical skills, get ready for a peek behind the scenes of operatic music-making! 🎶

Episode 3 - Hey there, opera enthusiasts and curious minds! 🎶 Welcome back to another episode of High Notes and Anecdotes – it's so great to have you with us! Today, we're diving into the dramatic world of opera with opera singer, Helena Dix and producer, Adam Miller. If you loved hearing about the musical prep last time, you're in for a treat! We're talking about the dramatic side of things and how Helena handles the unique challenge of playing vastly different roles, like switching from a nun to a strumpet, all in a week's work. Helena shares the emotional depth and realness she brings to each role, including her unforgettable performances as Musetta and Suor Angelica. The episode is loaded with hilarious and heartfelt stories (hello, Domingo's accidental tenor moments!), and provides a peek into the dramatic preparation involved in opera. Whether you're an opera newbie or a seasoned aficionado, come listen in as Helena and Adam chat about the joys and trials of taking characters from the operatic score to the stage.

Episode 2 - Hey there, lovely listeners! 🎶 Dive into this episode as Adam Miller, former opera singer turned producer, and Helena Dix, our globetrotting soprano, share behind-the-scenes secrets on musically preparing for opera roles. Helena breaks down her meticulous approach to mastering two dramatically different roles simultaneously, while Adam reveals why he tries not to sing while up a tree. If you're curious about how opera singers juggle roles and deal with unexpected challenges on stage, tune in!

Episode 1 - Hey there, friends and fellow opera lovers! 🎶 Welcome to our first episode of High Notes and Anecdotes. Join Helena Dix, an opera singer with a love for those spectacular high notes, and Adam Miller, a former opera singer turned producer, writer, and director, as we dive into a world filled with music, laughter, and a bit of reality. In this episode, we uncover the reasons behind starting this podcast, sharing our fantastic yet chaotic lives on the road as freelancers in the opera world. Expect some intriguing discussions about the importance of dining tables, to cutlery conundrums, and more! 🥳 We hope you’ll enjoy our chatty adventure, filled with stories from crossing international stages to navigating domestic routines. Stay tuned for more fun and, yes, maybe some eyebrow dancing too! 😉