By Judy Shields
I had the opportuning to discuss David’s career journey from his breakthrough at age 26 in Switzerland to performing over 1,300 times worldwide. David shared his experience performing the role in German, his education at Texas Tech University, and his teaching studio with approximately 70 students. What an amazing career he has been Blessed with and I really enjoyed talking with David.
Vocal Performance Career Journey
David discussed his educational background in vocal performance at Texas Tech University, which included classical music training, music theory, piano proficiency, and vocal pedagogy. He explained how seeing Michael Crawford in The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway inspired him to switch from business to music as a major. David also shared that he chose Chicago over New York for his professional start due to its smaller size and stronger theater community, where he performed in several shows before landing the role that brought him full circle back to Michael Crawford.
Phantom Musical Audition Experience
David shared his experience auditioning for the Phantom musical in Basel, Switzerland. He was offered a role as the Phantom alternate and male swing, which required performing in German. Despite the short notice before his wedding, David accepted the role and made his debut on October 20th, 1995.
Phantom Performance Experience in Germany
David discussed his experience performing as the Phantom in German productions, sharing that he was initially nervous about not wanting to mess up, especially with the language barrier. He explained that over time, the excitement of performing outweighed his nervousness, and singing in German was easier than speaking it due to the slower pace and elongated words in songs. David mentioned having around 30-40 videos of his performances available online, including solo concerts and his time as Jean Val jean, though specific Phantom performances are not available on YouTube.
Voice Teacher’s Studio Success Stories
David shared his social media presence across platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Spotify, and YouTube, and discussed his voice teaching studio which he started in 2010 after his Phantom tour. He currently teaches about 70 students aged 11 to 30, with a focus on preparing high school students for college auditions in musical theater and opera programs. David highlighted several successful students including Corbin Ross in The Outsiders national tour, Amanda Reid in the lead role of Hell’s Kitchen on Broadway, and Alicia Delarue who was part of the cast of Hamilton and is now in The Notebook national tour.
International Phantom Performances Experience
David shared his experiences performing in international productions of Phantom, including performing at the Basel Music Hall and Neue Flora Theater in Hamburg. He described his favorite location as Engelberg, Switzerland, where he performed near a Benedictine monastery. David also discussed how altitude affected his voice, noting that performing in the Alps at lower elevations was manageable, but higher altitudes like Denver caused significant breathlessness and the need for oxygen during performances.
David’s Life Achievements and Honors
David shared details about his life in Frisco, Texas, where he lives with his wife and enjoys bass fishing, traveling to visit family, and trying new foods. He discussed his induction into the Buddy Holly Walk of Fame in Lubbock, Texas, in 2006. He was honorable as other notable musicians like Waylon Jennings and John Denver were inductees. David also mentioned receiving the Texas Tech Distinguished Alumni Award in 2018 for his contributions to society and living up to Texas Tech’s mantra.
Interview Experience and Content Plans
David discussed his experience growing up in Lubbock, Texas, and being honored among the great people at Texas Tech. He shared his passion for singing, both professionally and around the house, mentioning that his dog sometimes joins in.
We discussed his induction into the Buddy Holly Walk of Fame and Texas Tech Distinguished Alumni Award, as well as his current life in Frisco, Texas with his wife and two children. The interview covered his travels performing in various theaters across Europe, his fishing hobby, and his ongoing work as a voice teacher preparing students for college auditions.
Visit him on his social media:
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Spotify
Here is our conversation. Enjoy:
