Measha Brueggergosman-Lee
From an early age, Fredericton-born Soprano Measha Brueggergosman-Lee’s parents, Ann Gosman and the late Rev. Sterling Gosman, made it their mandate as parents to develop the gifts of their children and, as such, she began voice and piano lessons at the age of 7.
Born in 1977, Measha’s engaging personality, exceptional musicianship and powerful voice have taken her to the major orchestras and concert halls of every continent, as well as the opening ceremonies of the Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Canada Day celebrations on Parliament Hill, and a Royal Command Performance for Queen Elizabeth II.
During the COVID pandemic, Measha presented a series of livestream “COVID concerts,” produced over 30 music videos for various organizations, and donated her album Measha JAZZ to her fans to encourage them through the global crisis.
This season, she will release Planet Measha, a truly original remix album featuring a host of multilingual hip hop and spoken-word artists and Zombie Blizzard, the highly anticipated album of genre-blurring concert arias composed by her closest musical collaborator, Aaron Davis, to the poetry of her long-time friend, Margaret Atwood.
What do you enjoy most about being an artist living and/or from New Brunswick?
The most inspiring and useful thing for me is the fact that I learned French in elementary school and daycare in Fredericton. It was a priority for my parents that their children be able to speak French and I continue to use this tool in my life, in my translations, in my life as an artist to communicate in another language. I did my Masters in Germany, so I speak German too. I know that languages are gateways to cultures that are strange to us, cultures we've grown up with. So I wanted to learn a lot of languages so that I could save more time doing my translations first and foremost, and the syntax or rhythms of a language also gives us access to a culture and it's also good for the brain.
I'd like to be an example or a model for my children to be curious in life and to be inspired by sources outside our experience and to know that in New Brunswick, the only officially bilingual province in all of Canada, that's something that's really a gift. I never want to see a day when New Brunswick is no longer bilingual because I think it's a really special identity and a national identity that preserves us as a representative of the national culture. That's why I'm so proud to have been born and raised in New Brunswick.
What drew you to music? Describe how you were inspired to explore music. What do you enjoy most about making music?
Music felt like a calling for me; it was ingrained in my destiny from an early age. Whether on a concert stage or elsewhere, I've always been drawn to performance, embracing the spotlight with ease despite being introverted in my personal life. Music offers me a sense of belonging within a community of creatives who express themselves through various mediums like sound, poetry, and visual arts.
Classical music became my forte due to my upbringing. Raised in a household where classical music was prevalent, and with a father working in the industry, it naturally became my musical foundation. I cherish classical music for its demanding standards, which fuel my competitive spirit and drive for excellence.
For young artists, I emphasize the importance of continuous growth. Artistry is a journey of perpetual development, not a destination. Collaboration, humility, and kindness are paramount, as they shape not only artistic success but also personal fulfillment. Understanding that everyone possesses unique gifts, bestowed by a higher purpose, enables one to run their race confidently and authentically. I find solace in knowing that the music I create is part of a larger plan, crafted specifically for me, allowing me to embrace my purpose with conviction and dedication.
What is your artistic approach and philosophy when it comes to creating music?
My artistic approach varies depending on the project, but at its core, it involves meticulous preparation and collaboration with people I deeply respect and care for. When learning a score, I rely on color-coding techniques to organize dynamics, tempo, translations, and insights from my voice lessons with esteemed mentors like Mary Morrison and Rose Marie Landry. As a visual learner, this method aids me in memorization.
My philosophy of creating music extends beyond mere performance; it's about authenticity and integration with life. I reject the notion that work, and life are separate entities. As a soloist, the pressures can be overwhelming, but I've learned to prioritize relationships and personal well-being over external expectations. It's crucial to know oneself and resist the pressure to conform to industry standards that may not align with our true selves. Instead, I strive to be a model of authenticity for my children and community.
I draw inspiration from artists who prioritize their relationships and well-being over professional success. These individuals understand that true fulfillment comes from living in alignment with one's values, trusting in divine guidance rather than succumbing to societal pressures. I aspire to embody the revolutionary spirit of Jesus Christ, who was unwavering in his mission to uplift humanity and confront injustice.
In my artistic process, I keep my focus sharp, surround myself with supportive individuals, and trust in the journey. I constantly evaluate my priorities, ensuring that my work serves a greater purpose beyond self-interest. By staying true to myself and embracing the collaborative process, I believe I can create music that resonates deeply with both me and others.
Who is/are your favorite artist(s) and why?
While many may expect me to name singers as my favorite artists, my true inspirations lie in the realm of poetry and libretto writing. One of my greatest influences is Margaret Atwood, whose boundless imagination and fearless exploration of the human condition captivate me. As both a fan of her work and someone who knows her personally, I admire her deep love, loyalty, and profound reflections on the world around her.
Currently, I'm working on an album featuring songs composed by Aaron Davis, with lyrics penned by Margaret Atwood. This collaboration embodies the convergence of my passion for music and my appreciation for powerful storytelling. Through their artistry, Atwood and Davis invite listeners to delve into themes that resonate deeply with the human experience.
My admiration extends beyond artists to individuals who embody qualities like service, stillness, and compassion. My mother's gift of service, demonstrated through her attentive listening and willingness to show up for others, is a source of inspiration. Similarly, my friend David's ability to exude calm and presence in any situation reminds me of the importance of inner peace amidst life's busyness.
In today's fast-paced culture, where busyness is glorified, it's crucial to recognize the value of stillness, service, and genuine connection. Jesus Christ, whom I often look to as the ultimate example, demonstrated the significance of solitude and prayer, despite his divine nature. His teachings and actions underscore the importance of self-care, compassion, and resilience in navigating life's challenges.
In essence, my favorite artists are those who inspire me to embody love, kindness, and justice in my interactions with others. Their works, whether in music, literature, or everyday acts of service, remind me of the profound impact one individual can have on the world. Just as Jesus's life and teachings continue to reverberate through time, I strive to leave a positive ripple effect through my own actions and contributions.
Who or what inspires you and why?
I draw my inspiration from the exemplary qualities of Jesus Christ, whose compassion, selflessness, humor, and dedication to serving others profoundly inspire me. His teachings on living a fulfilling life resonate deeply with my own values, as he demonstrated a path to happiness through kindness and empathy. I admire his courage in speaking out against injustice and his compassion for marginalized individuals in society. As an opera singer, musician, communicator, and mother, I view Jesus as a timeless figure who championed change and compassion. My dedication to my craft, particularly in singing, is my way of honoring the values of kindness and generosity that I see exemplified in his teachings. Finding joy and peace in living a life aligned with these principles, I am grateful for the positive impact Jesus' message has had on humanity, regardless of religious beliefs.
