Meet Rachel Eve Holmes: Freelance Opera Singer; Opera Stage Director, Reinhardt University; Executive Director, Peach State Opera

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachel Eve Holmes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachel Eve, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I believe that the most important factor behind my success is knowing where I belong in the opera world, and staying in my lane. I know that I am a compelling story-teller, and that I am happiest when I am making art with good people in a healthy, kind, and nurturing environment. I always say that if I am making good art with good people, I am living my dream of being a successful opera singer, whether the gig is considered “important” by the world’s standards. I have been lucky to perform all over the world, including Carnegie Hall four times, but the most meaningful musical moments I have had in my life have often been with much more intimate performance interactions- nursing homes, elementary schools, and performances for the incarcerated. I live by one adage that helps me to keep perspective with every contract I take: “Good Opera Anywhere is Good for Opera Everywhere”. I strive to present a world-class product to any community with which I make contact. The “where” is a lot less important to me than the “why”. I sing to uplift, heal, and to tell stories.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I want the world to know that I have never given up the belief that I have something important to say with my voice and art, and that the world would be lesser if I didn’t share! I also know that that is the one thing that I want all of the students with whom I work to know- that their voice is invaluable to the world- so know what you want to say, and how you want to say it, and confidently do so! No one can speak for you except yourself.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love Atlanta so much! I would definitely take them to the beautiful Georgia Acquarium, World of Coke, Center for Puppetry Arts, and a ride on the huge Ferris wheel! I would take them to Centennial Olympic Park, the Botanical Gardens, and the Atlanta Zoo. We would catch a show at the Cobb Energy Center, and a Braves Game! I would also take a walk on the beltline and catch Underground Atlanta! We would also go take a shopping trip to Atlantic Station, and dinner at the Sun Dial at the Westin!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My late and great voice teacher James McDonald, my parents, my sister, and all of the hundreds of incredible opera artists that I have collaborated for the last 15 years.