SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. — An opera voice is making quite the impression in North Park.
For the past two Sundays, Victoria Robertson sings from her porch at noon.
As a musician she, like so many others, is without work, but she is still spreading joy. Robertson, a soprano, spent 12 years with the San Diego Opera Chorus. She also sang with the USO and is a soloist.
“It's inspiring, uplifting,” said Jo McClenny.
She knew her cue to sing when the Easter Sunday monthly neighborhood potluck was canceled because of coronavirus rules. Robertson said she asked for her neighbors' permission to perform. When no one opposed, she put on a gown and sang hymns from her porch for 15 minutes.
“I didn't feel like I was up here to show off my voice to the neighborhood. I was trying to be more of a messenger of what Easter means to us as a holiday,” said Robertson.
Her voice floated throughout the neighborhood and attracted more than 30 people to watch and listen for a moment.
“[It] brought tears to my eyes, literally,” said McClenny.
Her voice traveled fast. Last Sunday at noon, she performed various arias and about 80 neighbors sat and watched.
Robertson plans to perform Madame Butterfly on Sunday.
“Trying to find a balance for my neighborhood and at the same time encourage people to be respectful, and keep their distance, and wear their masks,” said Robertson.
Her next-door neighbor said this has been a way to connect with new and old neighbors.
“It does bring out the friendship and camaraderie in the neighborhood,” said McClenny.
Robertson said right now she is not working and is grateful for the unsolicited donations she has received. She hopes this can be an inspiration to help other local musicians’ fans following during this time.
Robertson said tips are welcomed on her Venmo account @v_sings.
“We’re not gigging right now and yes it's a struggle, it's a struggle,” she said.
Her voice is bringing peace to North Park at a time when so many are struggling emotionally, physically, and financially.
“It was powerful to think I can make a small amount of difference in what the world is dealing with,” said Robertson.
WATCH Victoria Robertson's Full Performance Below:
