Thea is a fiercely independent young woman born to a Swedish immigrant family. Initially a talented piano student, she eventually discovers her true vocation in singing. She possesses a powerful inner ambition and a profound work ethic that sets her apart from her peers. She draws significant creative energy from the natural environments of the American West.

The town physician in Moonstone who feels socially out of place and trapped in an unhappy marriage. He serves as an early, steadfast mentor to Thea and immediately recognizes her unique potential. He provides critical emotional and financial support to ensure she has the opportunity to pursue her dreams outside their small town.

The wealthy, charming heir to a brewing business who takes singing lessons purely for pleasure. He is captivated by Thea's dedication and talent, offering her opportunities to rest at his family's Arizona ranch. He brings financial privilege and romantic complication into her highly focused life.

A thirty-year-old freight train conductor who leads an adventurous, observant life. He acts as a protective, deeply devoted figure in Thea's early life, patiently planning for a future where he can provide for her. He frequently shares stories of the natural world and his travels.

A Methodist minister in Moonstone, born to a Scandinavian immigrant community. He is an earnest, respectable man who supports his daughter's unconventional path despite his conservative religious background and the scrutiny of his congregation.

The practical, organized matriarch of the Kronborg family who owns income-generating property in Nebraska. She respects her children as individuals and grants them significant freedom. She provides Thea with a strong foundation of discipline and independence.

A highly educated German immigrant who struggles with extreme poverty and alcoholism. He is an exacting music teacher who recognizes Thea's inherent genius, pushing her relentlessly to develop the internal discipline required of a true artist.

A gifted Hungarian immigrant and highly observant music teacher. He realizes that while Thea possesses immense talent, her true artistic calling lies in singing rather than the piano. He successfully redirects the entire course of her career.

A cynical, cold, but highly effective voice teacher in Chicago. His exacting, unsentimental approach helps Thea refine her vocal technique while simultaneously showing her the type of superficial artist she wishes to avoid becoming.

Thea's eccentric aunt who participates enthusiastically in the local drama club. She is her niece's most vocal supporter, though her boastful nature sometimes causes social friction within the town.

Thea's older sister. Unlike Thea, she is conventionally devout, highly concerned with public perception, and critical of her sister's associations with secular music and Mexican immigrants.

Thea's youngest brother. He serves as her special responsibility and brings her comfort and joy during her intensive childhood studies in Moonstone.

One of Thea's many siblings who accompanies her and Ray Kennedy on regional excursions outside of Moonstone.

Another of Thea's brothers in the large Kronborg household who participates in the family's childhood adventures.

A charismatic Mexican immigrant in Moonstone who possesses a beautiful singing voice. He struggles with periodic bursts of fevered behavior brought on by performing, but he shares a profound musical connection with Thea.

Spanish Johnny's deeply patient and perceptive wife. She understands her husband's artistic madness and maintains a quiet, observant presence in their community.

The town tailor in Moonstone who harbors a quiet artistic sensibility, evidenced by his intricate textile artwork of Napoleon's retreat.

The hardworking wife of the town tailor who frequently cares for their difficult, alcoholic tenant.

Dr. Archie's unfriendly and obsessively tidy wife. She keeps herself isolated from the townspeople and remains contentedly uninvested in her profoundly unhappy marriage.

Thea's musical rival from the wealthier Baptist community. She relies on pretty dresses and basic performances to win the crowd's affection, which frustrates Thea's artistic standards.

The president of the Baptist concert committee. She is a gossipy, judgmental woman who views Thea's unconventional friendships with deep suspicion.

The daughter of Mrs. Johnson, who eventually becomes one of Thea's local piano students despite her mother's initial hostility.

A widowed parishioner who provides Thea with her first safe, comfortable living arrangement in the overwhelming city environment.

A widowed woman who, along with her mother, creates a kind and welcoming home for Thea during her early days in the city.

The caretaker of the Ottenburg property in Panther Canyon. He teaches Thea about the ancient Indigenous history of the surrounding land.

A fellow singer and rare friend to Thea in her later career. He understands her intense artistic temperament and respects her unrelenting dedication.

A popular singer who takes lessons alongside Thea. Thea frequently observes her technique and actively decides not to emulate her superficial artistic style.

A well-known singer who serves as another example for Thea of what an artist should not become. She relies on crowd appeal rather than rigorous technique.