Samuel Mariño in Australia

Interview - February 13, 2025

CONTEXT

Back by popular demand, male soprano Samuel Mariño, returns to the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra’s stage as a glittering guest.

Samuel began his studies in piano and voice at the National Conservatory in Caracas, and ballet at the National School of Dance in Venezuela. At his young age, Samuel Mariño has already portrayed some of the most monumental roles in baroque and classical opera and oratorio, including works by Monteverdi, Handel, Porpora, Vivaldi, Hasse, Mozart, and Salieri.

Witness Samuel’s world-class talent from Feb 13th to 22nd.

PERFORMING IN AUSTRALIA

The most exciting thing about returning to Australia? Well, I love performing with my Australian family – the Brandenburg. Australian audiences are incredibly diverse, and I love that because that's what identifies me as well. Diversity is tremendously important for all of us around the world.

PERFORMING AGAIN WITH BRANDENBURG

This program is more personal because I tried to make it more 'me.' When I first came here, it was more about introducing myself and sharing who I am. But now, both the audience and the orchestra know me, so I’ve tried to program something much more personal - something that truly comes from my heart, filled with emotion. It also includes some new arias for me.

ON CONNECTING WITH VENEZUELAN ROOTS

I think I'm very connected to my roots. Of course, when I left my country, my mother always told me, 'Don’t forget where you come from because that’s who you are' - and it’s true. I am very Venezuelan. I’m more Venezuelan than arepas or something like that! But I also consider myself a citizen of the world. I’ve lived in so many places over the last 12 years that, in a way, I feel like I’m from everywhere. I love being from everywhere. But yes, Venezuela will always have a special place in my heart.

ON IMPROVING THE OPERA INDUSTRY

I think I would introduce more diversity into opera. Opera can represent different skin colors, religions, anything. I believe we should do this more - make it more relevant to today, more in tune with what’s happening in the world. So, maybe we shouldn’t change everything, but perhaps we should introduce elements like that. I like the idea of introducing new perspectives; I don’t like the idea of changing the essence of it. I think there should be space for every taste and for every person who feels different.

Image provided by Australian Brandenburg Orchestra