RNZ Concert presenter Kate Lineham takes five minutes out from her performing schedule (as the Countess in Eternity Opera's production of Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro) to chat about '-f-bombs' on Upbeat, being a Portfolio Careerist and how chocolate is good for you...
Kate Lineham (left) as The Countess and Emily Mwila as Susannah in "The Marriage of Figaro" Photo: Supplied
When did you first start working for RNZ?
About 15 years ago. I was on the street waiting for a bus, hiding from the rain in the one piece of shelter available. As was Christine Argyle. While we were chatting I found out they were having presenter auditions the next day… and the rest is history!
When not behind the microphone, what are you usually doing?
I have what I’ve been told is a “portfolio career”; meaning I do loads of bits and pieces. Lots of professional singing, teaching and lately I’m really enjoying doing some of the music scheduling on RNZ Concert.
Kate Lineham Photo: supplied
Describe your average work day morning?
The joy of a portfolio career is that there is no average to my mornings. This can also be its greatest challenge.
Live radio often throws the unexpected at us? Can you remember a situation or event that took you by surprise (a significant on-air disaster that you can laugh about now??)
I was producing Upbeat once and we accidentally programmed the wrong CD track during an interview. The presenter was chatting with the interviewee, so it was up to me to get it off the air after the f-bombs started falling. It took three of those and a few other choice expletives before we stopped it. It may have been our station’s only upheld Broadcasting Authority complaint.
Favourite composer?
Totally mood related; I listen to a huge variety of styles. I really appreciate silence too, after hearing music all day at my various jobs. I particularly love singing Puccini and Mozart.
What do you do to relax?
I recharge in nature; my boys often get dragged out when I think they’d rather not. (“I don’t want another adventure Mum!”)
Favourite place in the world?
I wish I could say that it’s always exactly where I am. I have yet to resolve Buddhism and being a huge travel junkie.
Tea or coffee drinker? Or both?
Definitely both, at different times. I’m beginning to see a pattern through my answers of preferring a portfolio life!
What is your greatest extravagance?
Adventuring. Followed by food. My husband is a wonderful doctor specialising in nutritional medicine, and I don’t eat nearly as much crap as I used to. And chocolate is good for you, OK?
Who or what is the greatest love of your life?
A performer’s life is potentially quite a selfish one. I still find it strange that my priorities shifted so absolutely when I had my son Daniel. And yet, without thinking about it, they did. I have an amazing family who are so precious to me.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I wish I had the talent of feeling consistently energetic. Does any mum have that?
What is the best thing about working for RNZ Concert?
Concert has always attracted the most amazing, talented, passionate people. Every one is a gem. They’ve always been the best thing about it, but the music is pretty special too. I do feel very lucky in my job.
