"Most singers, I believe, need a couple of days--sometimes longer--in
which to review a rôle. I never use the notes or score when going over a
part in which I have appeared, for I know them absolutely, so there is
no occasion to use the notes. Other singers appear frequently at
rehearsal with their books, but I never take mine. My intimate knowledge
of score, when I assisted my father in taking charge of operatic scores,
is always a great help to me. I used to take charge of all the scores
for him, and knew all the cuts, changes and just how they were to be
used. The singers themselves often came to me for stage directions about
their parts, knowing I had this experience.
"Yes, as you suggest, I could sing here in winter, then in South America
in summer." (Miss Muzio accomplished this recently, with distinguished
success and had many thrilling adventures incident to travel.) "This
would mean I would have no summer at all, for that season with them is
colder than we have it here. No, I want my summer for rest and study.
During the season at the Metropolitan I give up everything for my art. I
refuse all society and the many invitations I receive to be guest of
honor here and there. I remain quietly at home, steadfastly at work. My
art means everything to me, and I must keep myself in the best condition
possible, to be ready when the call comes to sing. One cannot do both,
you know; art and society do not mix well. I have never disappointed an
audience; it would be a great calamity to be obliged to do so."