On the Couch with Saimir Pirgu

Saimir Pirgu AAR On the CouchWho is Saimir Pirgu?
An Albanian tenor with an incredible passion for music in general and Opera.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
Absolutely nothing. I would do it all in the same way and at the same time.

Who inspires you and why?
As I have often said, I consider myself a ‘product’ of The Three Tenors. In fact, it is thanks to them that I have taken the path of singing. When I was about 13 or 14 years old and living in Elbasan, a small industrial city of Albania, I saw on TV the famous Three Tenors Concert from Caracalla. I was fascinated. I recorded that concert and listened to it countless times. From that moment, I decided that singing and the opera world would become my life, and so it was.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would like to erase fear forever, I wish people would not be afraid of anything. Fear makes us live badly and does not allow us to fully enjoy the incredible gift of life.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
My home in Italy. I am more than 300 days per year working around the world and coming back home and meet my loved ones is the best holiday for me.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Arts Centre Melbourne for the beautiful production of Gounod’s Faust.

What are you currently reading?
National Identity – a book by Ismail Kadare.

What are you currently listening to?
I listen to all kinds of music. I like to turn on the radio and let it go for hours.

Happiness is?
Life.

What does the future hold for you?
So far life has given many dreams to me – most of them have come true and I hope to continue to make others. I hope in a long career, well done, healthy and without follies.

Saimir stars as Faust in Opera Australia’s production of Gounod’s Faust in the State Theatre – Arts Centre Melbourne from 27 November 2019. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.

Image: Saimir Pirgu – courtesy of Opera Australia