In a small township near piet Retief, South Africa, a pivotal moment unfolded in 2001 that would change the life of a young girl named Pretty Yende. While watching a television show with her family, a British Airways advertisement featuring the enchanting Duo des fleurs from the opera lakmé played during a commercial break. This moment sparked a fascination in Pretty, who had been singing in her native Zulu at church as childhood.
At just 16 years old, Pretty was captivated by the extraordinary sounds she heard. The following day, her choir director explained that the beautiful voices she had heard were part of an opera, revealing to her that such ethereal music was indeed created by human voices. This revelation ignited a passion within her that would alter her life’s trajectory.
Initially, Pretty had planned to pursue a career in accounting to support her family. However, that brief moment of inspiration led her to embrace her true calling as an opera singer. Reflecting on that life-changing experience, she remarked, “Those ten seconds changed my life.” Recently,she revisited the advertisement that had introduced her to the world of opera,recalling how it felt like destiny.
A Life Transformed in Ten Seconds
Fast forward to January 2025, and Pretty Yende is now a celebrated soprano, performing at prestigious venues around the world.sitting in a café near the Bavarian State Opera in Munich, she reminisced about her journey. Just the night before, she had received a standing ovation for her performance in La Fille du régiment by Donizetti.
During our conversation, Pretty shared insights about her rigorous training, her love for South African culture, and her hobbies, including cooking and exploring local museums during her downtime. yet, amidst her success, she frequently enough reflects on that fateful moment in front of the television, emphasizing the profound impact of those ten seconds that set her on a path to greatness.
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Q&A with Pretty yende: The Soprano Who Embraced Her Destiny
Time.news Editor: Pretty, your journey from a small township in South Africa to becoming an acclaimed soprano is truly inspiring. Can you tell us more about that pivotal moment in 2001 when you first encountered opera?
Pretty Yende: It was indeed a life-changing moment. While watching television with my family, I heard the Duo des fleurs from the opera Lakmé in a British Airways advertisement. At that moment, something inside me clicked. I had been singing in Zulu at church, but I had never imagined that such lovely music was created by human voices. When my choir director explained what opera was, it ignited a passion I didn’t know I had. those ten seconds really changed my life.
Time.news editor: It’s incredible to think how a brief advertisement could have such a profound impact. Initially, you had different career aspirations. How did you reconcile your passion for opera with your plans to pursue accounting?
Pretty Yende: At first, I felt a sense of obligation to support my family by choosing a stable career in accounting. But after that moment of inspiration,I realized I had to follow my heart and embrace my true calling as an opera singer. It’s crucial for anyone to listen to their passion, as it can lead to fulfilling your destiny.
Time.news Editor: You have mentioned that you reflect often on that fateful moment as you continue to perform globally. How does your South African heritage influence your performances today?
Pretty Yende: My South African roots play a crucial role in my artistry. The rhythms, melodies, and cultural stories from my upbringing infuse my performances. I feel that my background allows me to bring authenticity and emotional depth to my roles. It’s also important for me to share my culture with the world through my music, bridging gaps and celebrating diversity in the arts.
Time.news Editor: You have achieved so much and currently perform at prestigious venues like the bavarian State Opera. What advice would you give to aspiring opera singers or anyone pursuing a passion?
Pretty Yende: My advice is to believe in yourself and stay committed to your craft.The journey can be full of challenges, but those challenges can be your greatest teachers. Seek out mentors, embrace your unique voice, and never underestimate the power of hard work and determination. And remember, sometimes the most significant changes in life can happen in the blink of an eye.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Pretty, for sharing your remarkable journey with us. It’s evident that your story is one of inspiration and persistence, reminding us all to embrace our true calling.
Pretty Yende: Thank you for having me. I hope my story encourages others to pursue their dreams, no matter how unlikely they may seem.