Larisa Martinez
Paying Homage to Her Puerto Rican Roots One Aria at a Time
By Sophia Strawser
Opera singer Larisa Martinez has filled many of the world’s top opera and concert venues, including the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, and the Hollywood Bowl, with her stunning soprano vocals and unparalleled stage presence. Currently on tour with her husband, Grammy award-winning violinist Joshua Bell, in “Voice and Violin,” the uniquely talented couple are bringing a repertoire of classical art songs, musical theater, and selections by Puerto Rican and Spanish composers to audiences around the world.
I recently had the opportunity to chat with Martinez during her photo shoot for Ac Magazine’s Fall 2024 issue. Wearing a vibrant dress that she picked up during a trip to Portugal, the artist spoke about her work, training, and decades of dedication to her craft.
When did you decide to pursue a career in opera?
As a teenager, I auditioned for and joined the Puerto Rico National Choir, which introduced me to classical singing and opera. The first piece I sang with them was Mozart’s “Requiem.” I vividly remember being at the front of the choir during the “Dies Irae” and feeling overwhelmed by the powerful wave of voices. I was moved to tears and knew instantly that I wanted to be part of this world. My piano teacher also encouraged me to study voice more seriously, and over time, my voice naturally developed in the operatic style.
How has Spanish classical music shaped you as an artist?
Growing up at my grandparents’ countryside home, I was surrounded by Latin American music that played frequently on the radio. Artists like Los Panchos, Mercedes Sosa, Violeta Parra, and Joan Manuel Serrat, with their lyrical sound and poetic lyrics, had a profound influence on me.
Latin classical music resonates deeply with me, reflecting my roots and background. Its rich blend of indigenous rhythms, European traditions, and African influences offers a wide range of expressive possibilities. Composers like Narciso Figueroa, Heitor Villa-Lobos, Astor Piazzolla, and Olga Coelho have expanded classical forms with local folk elements and this diversity has enriched my interpretive techniques and helped me approach traditional styles like bel canto with greater technical flexibility and emotional depth.
How has it been working with your husband?
I’m incredibly fortunate to collaborate with such an amazing musician who is also my husband. Sharing the stage and exploring music together has been an absolute joy. Our serious collaboration began during the (pandemic) lockdown, and focused on music for just voice and violin. We had the time to research and find pieces we both loved, creating unique arrangements for us. This has evolved into a full program that we can perform with piano and orchestra, and it continues to develop. I’m especially excited about a new cycle of songs composed by John Corigliano, dedicated to us, with lyrics by Tennessee Williams. It will premiere next year.
Read the whole story in Ac Magazine's Holiday Issue HERE.