Ross Ramgobin on his path to the ROH, working with DBP... and enjoying Arsenal’s current season
Baritone Ross Ramgobin has recently starred in the Royal Opera House’s new production of Rusalka with St Paul’s Opera (SPO) patron David Butt Philip (DBP). Hard work achieves the rewards of working at the highest level, he tells SPO founder, Tricia Ninian.
Photo: Billy Goodworth
What inspired you to take up singing?
When I was studying at Brunel University, I had a Music Award which not only paid for singing lessons, but also got me involved in choirs and shows. I ended up enjoying the time I spent at the Arts Centre more than my actual degree. My singing teacher Eileen and coach Sally mentioned to me that it might be something I could consider as a career - they really nurtured me, took me to concerts and operas, and helped to broaden the repertoire I was singing. This eventually prepared me to audition for the Royal Academy and I got in to do postgraduate study in 2009.
Ross as Papageno. Photo: Tristram Kenton
What are you up to today?
I finished Rusalka at the Royal Opera House (with DBP) last week, so I've actually managed to have a couple of days off this weekend. I went down to Dorset for a break with my wife as we're expecting a baby. We managed to fit in a visit to Monkey World, where we sponsor some capuchins, plus some lovely meals out and a trip to Poole to see my good friend Tom [Elwin] performing with English Touring Opera. Rest is super important, so it was brilliant to have some time away from work. I'm about to start work preparing two pieces for the summer, so I'll be getting on the case tomorrow!
How did Rusalka go for you?
When you work at the top level, it really makes you raise your game. That's why I love working at ROH - everyone there from coaches, to language experts, conductors, singers and directors are world class at what they do. Of course there are tough days in the rehearsal room, but fundamentally I remain thankful that I'm able to do this as a job.
What other operas have you worked on with DBP?
Ross as Hajny in Rusalka at the ROH. Photo: Camilla Greenwell
In September 2020 DBP and I were both cast in English National Opera’s "Drive and Live" version of La Bohème, which was performed in the car park of Alexandra Palace to a drive-in audience. DBP and I were in opposite casts, and because of the risks of COVID, we were told that we weren't allowed to socialise with the other cast. Probably the right decision for the sake of the performances, but it was very odd saying "oh sorry mate, I'd love a pint, but government says I can't..."
What excites you outside the operatic life?
Football. I'm a season ticket holder at Arsenal, having been on the waiting list for 15 years! Aside from that, I enjoy stargazing and being by the sea - that's definitely my happy place, preferably with sunshine, but I'm not fussy, Bournemouth in March will do!
What does the future hold?
I'm off to Amsterdam in May to do a concert of The Death of Klinghoffer conducted by the composer John Adams at the Concertgebouw, and then back to London to start rehearsals as Marcello in La Bohème at Opera Holland Park which we perform in July and August.
Ross (right) as Schaunard in La boheme at the Royal Opera House. Photo: Marc Brenner