Meaning: The quote "But I think it is more difficult to do a career as a lieder singer, and there have been less lieder singers." by Victoria Angeles, a musician, touches on the challenges and scarcity of careers as lieder singers in the music industry. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to comprehend the context of lieder singing and the factors contributing to the difficulties faced by individuals pursuing this career path.

Lieder, a German term meaning "songs," refers to a genre of classical music that involves setting poetry to music. This art form gained prominence during the Romantic era, particularly through the works of composers such as Franz Schubert, Robert Schumann, and Johannes Brahms. Lieder singing demands exceptional vocal skills, interpretive prowess, linguistic proficiency, and an understanding of the emotional and narrative content of the poetry being set to music. Unlike operatic performance, where singers are often accompanied by a full orchestra and engage in dramatic storytelling, lieder singing requires a more intimate and nuanced approach, often performed in smaller venues with a pianist as the sole accompanist.

Victoria Angeles' statement underscores the inherent challenges associated with pursuing a career as a lieder singer. The rigorous demands of the genre necessitate a high level of musicianship and vocal artistry. Lieder singers must possess not only exceptional vocal technique but also a deep understanding of poetic interpretation and the ability to convey the emotional nuances of the text through their singing. Furthermore, fluency in the language of the poetry being sung is often essential, adding an additional layer of complexity for performers.

In addition to the artistic demands, the career path for lieder singers can be fraught with practical challenges. Unlike opera, which has a more established infrastructure and a greater number of performance opportunities, the world of lieder performance is often more limited. Recitals and chamber music concerts form the primary platform for lieder singers, and securing engagements in these settings can be competitive and financially challenging. The smaller, more intimate nature of lieder performances also means that building a dedicated audience and establishing a reputation as a lieder singer requires significant dedication and perseverance.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the scarcity of lieder singers in the industry. This scarcity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the specialized nature of lieder singing requires a unique skill set that not all vocalists possess. As a result, the pool of individuals capable of excelling in this genre may be smaller compared to those pursuing more mainstream vocal careers in opera or popular music. Additionally, the challenges and uncertainties associated with establishing a sustainable career as a lieder singer may deter some aspiring musicians from pursuing this path, further contributing to the limited number of practitioners in the field.

It is important to acknowledge that despite the difficulties and scarcity highlighted in the quote, there is a rich tradition of lieder singing that continues to be upheld by dedicated performers and enthusiasts. Organizations and festivals dedicated to the promotion of lieder repertoire exist, providing platforms for artists to showcase their talent and for audiences to experience the beauty of this art form.

In conclusion, Victoria Angeles' quote sheds light on the arduous nature of pursuing a career as a lieder singer and the relatively limited presence of practitioners in the field. It serves as a reminder of the unique challenges and rewards associated with this specialized form of musical expression and the importance of supporting and celebrating the art of lieder singing.