Hitting the High Notes: Balancing Opera, Marriage, and Parenthood

Ah, the glamorous life of an opera star! The travel, the music, the acclaim. And how much more exciting to share that passion with your spouse. First Coast Opera actually works with several artists who are married, but today we were checking in with Sarah Nordin and Tyler Putnam, who patrons would know from our own productions of The Pirates of Penzance, Die Fledermaus, Trial by Jury, and others.

“You caught me at an ironic moment,” explained Tyler. “We are trying to build our first-grade homeschool curriculum and get school up and running.” You see, in addition to balancing two careers, Tyler and Sarah also need to balance the needs of their young daughter, Pauline.

One of the main challenges for couples like Sarah Nordin and Tyler Putnam is balancing their personal relationship with the demands of their professional careers. Opera singers often have rigorous schedules, with long rehearsals, performances, and travel that can take them away from home for extended periods. Maintaining a strong marriage while pursuing separate and sometimes overlapping careers can be difficult, especially when both partners are required to work in different cities or countries for long stretches of time.

“We are fortunate to be able to be able to work together often, especially in Florida”, explains Sarah. “Pauline always travels with us and is very at-home backstage. In fact, she made her own debut in Madame Butterfly at Opera Tampa when she was 3 years old.”

Despite the challenges, many opera couples like Sarah and Tyler find strength in their partnership. Having a spouse who understands the pressures of the opera world can provide vital emotional support. Fortunately, in addition to their opera work, the couple produces various concerts and solo programs.

Tyler says, “We complement each other in this family. Sarah is the dreamer and creative muse. She is also the hardest working: dream big and work hard. I am the details guy and the anxious one. I specialize in boring logistics. Pauline is the sensible one. She reminds us to slow down, to explore, and to play.”