BWW Exclusive: New York Pops Spotlight on Laura Osnes

On Monday, April 29, The New York Pops marks its 30th birthday with a grand gala evening honoring the musical talents of songwriters Frank Loesser and Jule Styne, and the centennial of legendary entertainer Danny Kaye. Paula Zahn, host of NYC ARTS on PBS, will host the evening.

The event begins at 7:00 PM with a concert at Carnegie Hall featuring a spectacular lineup of guest artists under the baton of Music Director Steven Reineke. Performers include Laura Benanti, Rob McClure, Donna Murphy, Kelli O'Hara, Laura Osnes, Anthony Warlow, and more. For additional information, visit: www.newyorkpops.org

BroadwayWorld recently chatted with featured performer Laura Osnes about her upcoming appearance in the special celebration:

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What will you be singing at the gala?

I'm singing Jule Styne's "People" from Funny Girl. The song was made famous by Barbra Streisand both on Broadway and in her big-screen debut as Fanny Brice -- It's a longing, sophisticated, and powerful song that I am truly honored and excited (and slightly intimidated!!) to sing, haha!

This year's New York Pops gala honors Frank Loesser, Jule Styne, and Danny Kaye. Do you have a favorite memory of any of the honorees?

The song that comes to mind that is closest to my heart is "Neverland" from Peter Pan, that was written as additional music for the show by Jule Styne. I got to play the role of Peter Pan when I was in high school and that song remains one of my favorite tunes and personal anthems.

Have you worked with The New York Pops before? What are you looking most forward to?

I was fortunate enough to sing "Hopelessly Devoted to You" with The New York Pops five years ago for their 25th Anniversary, honoring the Nederlanders. I could definitely get used to this tradition of singing with the Pops at Carnegie Hall every five years!! It's the most beautiful and prestigious venue I think I've ever had the pleasure to sing in. Steven Reineke has already been a wonderful captain to us as performers, finding arrangements to perfectly complement each voice, and I can't wait to witness how he will lead this sensational orchestra on April 29th!

Students from The New York Pops education programs will also perform during the concert. What was your music education/training like?

I grew up learning to read music through piano lessons, then started taking voice lessons privately when I was 10 years old. I was heavily involved in high school choir and Chamber/Small group choirs, in addition to doing musical theater.

What single piece of advice would you give to any aspiring performers?

Everyone's path to "success" is so different and everyone will hand out different advice based on their experiences... I have learned that it's most important just to be yourself and stay true to who you are. Work hard, prepare, love every part of the process, learn from those around you, keep showing up, but always be yourself, bringing the best of YOU to every new challenge or experience.