While he is among the headliners of the Céline Symphonique show presented at the Maison symphonique de Montréal, singer Barnev spoke about his more than 20-year professional relationship with Céline Dion in an interview at LCN.
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“Céline is such a disciplined person. She respects her voice very much. I learned a lot from her through her professionalism. She loves her fans,” says the singer.
Barnev particularly remembers the strict discipline that the Quebec singer imposes on herself, but also her human side.
“Even if she doesn't give us advice, you can tell what she's like just by watching her. She interacts with her audience, with her fans. She is also really a simple person. She's not a starlet like the Americans. She stands with both feet on the ground. She often jokes and makes us laugh,” he explains.
Strangely enough, the man who became known for his participation in Dubmatique's 1997 song “Soul Cryeur” has never taken singing lessons.
He first learned discipline through religion, then through working with Celine Dion.
“With Céline it’s a completely different world. Even if you are sick, you have to sing. Even if you're not feeling well, you have to come and do the show. The show must go on. You have to adapt. When you're sick, people don't care! They come to see a show. They paid money, they want to see the show!” Barnev announces.
Taking part in a series of four shows in two days, as is the case with Céline Symphonique, will be a first for the Quebec singer.
“Performing Celine Dion’s songs with the symphony orchestra will be magical,” he says.
To watch the full interview, watch the video above.