Larisa Martinez: One aria at a time paying homage to her Puerto Rican roots

Opera singer Larisa Martínez has filled many of the world’s top opera and concert venues, including the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, Athens’ Herodeon, and Korea’s KSPO Dome with her stunning soprano vocals and unparalleled stage presence. Currently on tour with her husband, Grammy award-winning violinist Joshua Bell, in “Voice and the Violin,” the uniquely talented couple are bringing a program of classical art songs, musical theater, and selections by Hispanic composers to audiences around the world. In between all of her travels she makes her way back home to NoMad. Bell has been in the neighborhood for over 17 years and Martínez for over five — both have watched the neighborhood shape shift into the hot spot that it is today.

I recently had the opportunity to chat with Martínez during her photo shoot for NOMAD Magazine. Wearing a vibrant dress that she picked up during a trip to Portugal, the artist spoke about her work, training, and love of the neighborhood.

When did you decide to pursue a career in opera?

As a teenager, I auditioned for and joined the Puerto Rican 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 the 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.

You’ve also been touring with Andrea Bocelli for a number of years. What has that experience been like?

The opportunity to join Andrea Bocelli on tour came through Eugene Kohn, a mentor of mine who was the music director of the Puerto Rican Symphony Orchestra. Eugene still frequently conducts Bocelli’s concerts and he arranged for me to audition for Bocelli and his wife Veronica. That led to me being offered a spot on Bocelli’s North American tour. That was in 2017 and I’ve been a frequent collaborator ever since. My favorite part of the tour was experiencing the incredible energy of performing for enthusiastic audiences worldwide, including at Viña del Mar in Chile, the Hollywood Bowl in LA, and Teatro del Silenzio in Italy.

When you look at your entire career, what are some of your favorite performances to date?

One performance I’m particularly proud of is Mahler’s 2nd Symphony at Carnegie Hall with the Athens Philharmonic, which took place just four days after my wedding.

What’s next for you?

I’m looking forward to returning to Brazil this season to perform Floresta do Amazonas with Maestro Marcelo Lehninger and the São Paulo Symphony. I’m also excited about visiting Greece for the first time to perform with the Athens Philharmonia and Greek tenor Mario Frangoulis and of course to continue our Voice and the Violin tour.

Is there a song or aria never gets old for you?

One aria I continually return to is “Bachianas Brasileiras” by Villa-Lobos. It never loses its power and continues to move me deeply each time.

What can you share about your soon-to-be- released debut album?

My debut album reflects my personal journey and musical influences. It features art songs by Latin American composers such as Ginastera, Villa-Lobos, and Puerto Rican composer Narciso Figueroa, arranged for orchestra by Maestro Steven Mercurio. This collection represents a significant part of my musical heritage and development.

You live in the heart of NoMad. What are some of your favorite things about the neighborhood?

I love NoMad for its perfect blend of classic and modern New York. The area boasts striking architectural landmarks like the Flatiron Building and the MetLife Building, as well as an abundance of excellent restaurants, cafés, and entertainment options.

What are your favorite spots in the neighborhood?

I enjoy grabbing a cortado at the Flatiron Café, saying hello to people through The Portal at Dublin, and walking my dog in Madison Square Park. I also love browsing Rizzoli’s bookstore for classical and new literature. For dining, you can find me at Izakaya for sushi, Cote for Korean food, Pecora Bianca for Italian, and Eataly.

As our time together came to a close, I was left with the distinct impression that Martínez is admired, respected, and loved for good reason. Her Puerto Rican heritage holds a special place in her heart and while it is so clearly expressed through her music, it is also evident in her conversations, and the way she handles everything with the utmost grace and care. Walking out into a summer rain, she offered me an umbrella for my journey back through NoMad to the office. As I politely accepted, I couldn’t help but think “brava, Martínez.”

For a schedule of Larisa Martínez’s upcoming performances, visit larisamartinez.com.