If you ever wondered what an opera singer’s daily life looks like, you’ll love Charlotte Hoather’s blog, where the British soprano invites visitors and fans behind the scenes (and occasionally on stage, too).

“[W]e were lucky to be alive, and not just because we didn’t get hit by lightening.” Good friends, a ferocious storm, and the beauty of being alive — and together.

In case you can’t spare 18 hours to listen to Wagner’s Ring Cycle, Jonathan Healey (hilariously) summarizes all you need to know about these long, helmet-filled operas.