Who is Mariana Hong?
Mariana Hong is a Mum to Joshua, an opera singer and a teacher and keeps trying to be an optimist who loves nature, friends and playing sports, living with full of passion.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I don’t think I would do much differently to what I do now. At one point in my life, before I decided to become a singer, I wanted to become an engineer. I love what I do now as singer and teacher, but I would also love to work for charities to help other people like what Mother Teresa did. I am a big admirer of hers.
Who inspires you and why?
As singer Maria Callas inspires me, and as a teacher and mentor, it’s Mariella Devia. What they did on stage is incredible. I aim to sing more beautifully with good technique and to create a real character on stage all at the same time, just like they did. In my personal life, I admire Mother Teresa, Pope Francis, Saints and my parents and grandparents. They always teach me how to become better person, live for others and to learn how to sacrifice for others.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I keep trying to become a better person in many ways. I believe when we are happy, we don’t harm others. And I try to teach my son and my students the best way possible.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My favourite place in the world is Switzerland. I love finding myself surrounded by lakes and mountains. I feel how small I am in nature and it gives me a sense of retreat myself. But when I can’t get to Switzerland, I love to watch the ocean and its waves at home on a rainy day.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Sydney Opera House. Australia’s iconic landmark and the place where I work.
What are you currently reading?
I am reading Mistress by James Patterson. I love thrillers.
What are you currently listening to?
I am listening to a lot of Richard Strauss’ masterpieces, especially Four Last Songs and Ein Heldenleben. They make me think about a life full of passion.
Happiness is?
It is very simple. Doing what I love, seeing my son growing, and playing with him as much as possible, giving as much as I can.
What does the future hold for you?
I like to think of my future as the present. I do what I love, singing and performing, but I hope to expand my repertoire and inspire people with my singing. I hope that my singing touches the hearts of the people who watch our performances.
Mariana stars as Liu in Opera Australia’s production of Turandot at the Sydney Opera House from 15 January 2019. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.
Image: Mariana Hong – photo by Te