Who is Kyle Stegall?
I’m an American opera singer now based here in Australia! My wife is the newly-appointed Principal 1st Violin of the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, which prompted our recent move. We’ve both been performing full-time in the States for the past 15 years and are happy to be joining the Australian arts scene.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Nothing. I am an artist. I am a musician. I am a communicator. I believe that what we do in opera and in classical music plays an important role in communities and I love being part of something which inspires, heals, and provokes thought.
Who inspires you and why?
My dog, Sally, inspires me. She is so caring, curious, and “in the moment.” When running on the beach she is bursting with joie de vivre, and when cuddling she is heavy with contentment. She is unbothered by the petty concerns of societal minutiae, and knows without a doubt what is genuinely important.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I try to be authentic and kind and respect the dignity of all people in all that I do. This allows me to make a difference in small interactions every day. I also believe that my vocation makes a difference in the world. Art is such a potent catalyst for building compassion and humanity in our world. It is a privilege to be a part of that force.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Honestly? Home. I am trying to embrace the “staycation.” As a professional singer, I get plenty of travel in my life. Radical self-care in your own locale removes the stress of “logistics” and allows for a less wasteful and more relaxing holiday.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
We are excited for friends from the U.S. to visit. Since I have family in Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide, I would do my best to bring them to some favourite spots in each city. West Beach and the Barossa in Adelaide, St. Kilda and Chapel Street in Melbourne, the ferries and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney.
What are you currently reading?
I’m re-reading James Gleick’s Chaos at the moment. It is difficult to say why I like it so much. The language is so clear and playful in exploring such a complicated and misunderstood subject. I find inspiration in reading about the necessary disruption new theories and ideas introduce into the standard discourse of anything. I’ve also begun rereading Fahrenheit 451…
What are you currently listening to?
I’ve been on a Tommy Richman kick recently. Top-notch vibes.
Happiness is?
Happiness is a sunny day on the beach, a football (NFL) game on the tele, or a slow and calm morning with the family.
What does the future hold for you?
As a new resident of Australia, I look forward to more collaborations with exciting companies, festivals, and artists across this beautiful country.
Kyle can be seen performing as Ferrando, one of the four Principal roles in State Opera South Australia’s production of Così fan tutte at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide from 29 August – 7 September 2024. For more information, visit: www.stateopera.com.au for details.
Image: Kyle Stegall (supplied)