About 40 people came out on a beautiful Saturday May 2 to hear the voice of opera singer Kathryn Domyan who has been performing most days during the COVID-19 pandemic. On this day, Domyan performed French art songs for neighbors and others from the driveway of her home. Although she wouldn’t perform French art songs in an opera or an audition, she would for art song competitions, in school and recitals and, of course, the enjoyment of others.

In a flowing dress and a hat to celebrate Kentucky Derby Hat Day, beautiful songs like “Si mes vers avait des ailes” by Reynaldo Hahn; “Le Colibri” by Ernest Chausson (The Hummingbird in English) and “Ouvre ton coeur” by Georges Bizet filled the air.

Coming from a musical family, Domyan was 5 years old when she performed her first musical “Annie” at The Pennsylvania Playhouse. She began voice lessons in ninth grade and after high school continued her education as a music teacher undergrad. She was persuaded to start performing opera although her goal is to become a voice professor.

Domyan was performing at the Sarasota Opera in Florida until recently.

Encouraged by her maestro to “go out and make music,” Domyan would sing in her home when one day she realized people were stopping and standing outside listening to her singing. She started performing outside in her driveway for others to enjoy. Crowds of children, teens and adults come out and listen. She performs every day 5 p.m. with specialty days including Musical Monday where she sings songs from musicals; Anything Goes Wednesdays and Fancy Fridays where she and some in the audience dress up and listen to her share her gifted voice singing opera. It’s a bright spot in a day of COVID-19 isolation and dressing down.

Domyan gives information on the songs she is performing and answers questions from the audience. Someone asked what she listens to on the radio while driving or does she use that time to practice singing. “It depends,” Domyan said. “The last trip I listened to classic rock, I listen to opera, pop music, classic rock just like anyone else depending on what mood I’m in.” When asked how she selects the songs she sings, she responded with, “lyrics, melody, feelings of a song and if it fits right.”

On road trips, she’s been known to be inspired to stop by the side of the road and sing opera.

Domyan has her sights on performing at Symphony Hall. She would also like to sing at church weddings and funerals. You can see her love of the songs while she is performing.

Her last outdoor performance will be held at her home 5 p.m. Mother’s Day so come out to the intersection of Hanover Drive and Andrea Drive in Wescosville and hear this talented voice. It’s a delightful time of listening to beautiful singing.