"I learn words and music of a rôle at the same time, for one helps the
other. When I have mastered a rôle, I know it absolutely, words, music
and accompaniment. I can always play my accompaniments, for I understand
the piano. I am always at work on repertoire, even at night. I don't
seem to need very much sleep, I think, and I often memorize during the
night; that is such a good time to work, for all is so quiet and still.
I lie awake thinking of the music, and in this way I learn it. Or,
perhaps it learns itself. For when I retire the music is not yet
mastered, not yet my own, but when morning comes I really know it.
"Of course I must know the words with great exactness, especially in
songs. I shall do English songs in my coming song recital work, and the
words and diction must be perfect, or people will criticize my English.
I always write out the words of my rôles, so as to be sure I understand
them and have them correctly memorized.