Meaning: Cecilia Bartoli, an acclaimed Italian mezzo-soprano, reflects on her experience with the German language and its influence on her singing. In this quote, she discusses living part of the year in Rome and part in the German-speaking region of Switzerland, indicating that her exposure to the German language has become more familiar due to her dual residence. However, she also acknowledges the challenge of not only singing but also feeling in German, emphasizing that it is a process that requires time and immersion in the culture.

Bartoli's reflection on the difficulty of feeling in German highlights the intricate relationship between language, culture, and emotion, particularly in the context of music. As a musician, Bartoli's ability to convey emotion and meaning through her singing is deeply intertwined with her understanding and interpretation of the language in which she performs. While she acknowledges that singing in German may not be inherently difficult, the deeper challenge lies in cultivating the emotional connection and cultural nuances necessary to authentically express the music.

The quote also underscores the notion that language is not merely a tool for communication but a vehicle for cultural expression and identity. Bartoli's experience living in both Rome and the German-speaking region of Switzerland has likely exposed her to the distinct cultural and linguistic characteristics of each place. As a result, she recognizes that the process of internalizing the emotional nuances of a language, particularly through singing, requires a deep immersion in the associated cultural context.

One can interpret Bartoli's words as a testament to the multifaceted nature of language and its impact on artistic expression. Beyond the technical aspects of pronunciation and grammar, the ability to truly inhabit a language and convey its essence through music demands a profound understanding of its cultural and emotional dimensions. Bartoli's observation speaks to the transformative power of language in shaping our perceptions, emotions, and creative expression.

Moreover, the quote alludes to the idea of linguistic and cultural fluidity, as Bartoli navigates between her time in Rome and the German-speaking region of Switzerland. Her experience of living in these diverse linguistic environments has likely contributed to her evolving relationship with the German language, illustrating the dynamic nature of language acquisition and adaptation. This fluidity reflects the interconnectedness of languages and cultures, as well as the profound influence they exert on artistic endeavors such as music.

In conclusion, Cecilia Bartoli's reflection on singing and feeling in German offers a compelling insight into the intricate interplay between language, culture, and emotion within the realm of music. Her words prompt us to consider the profound impact of language on artistic expression, as well as the transformative power of cultural immersion in shaping our understanding and interpretation of music. Ultimately, Bartoli's observation serves as a poignant reminder of the rich complexities inherent in the relationship between language, culture, and the arts.