Philip Glass is one of the most acclaimed composers of our time. The composer’s minimalist approach to composition balances the melodic with the arpeggiated rhythm. Most will say that his music all sounds the same but if you listen closely, you’ll discover the intricate melodies within the rhythmic structure. On Jan. 31, 1937 Phillip Glass turns 80 and OperaWire takes {…}
Mario Lanza was born on Jan. 31, 1921, but unfortunately lived just 38 years, dying in 1959. Everyone knows who Lanza is. Regardless of whether you go to the opera or not, the matinee idol’s sunshine voice is among the most recognizable in the history of the 20th century music. Lanza’s great face and our memory of his voice really {…}
Over the past few years Eric Owens has garnered praise for his heartbreaking and commanding work on stage. One only has to look at his ground-breaking portrayal of Alberich in Wagner’s “Das Rheingold” at the Metropolitan Opera to see the depth and emotional range he gives to each one of his roles. This week the bass is adding another important {…}
The history of Mussorgsky’s famed “Boris Godunov” is quite extensive with many comparing it to Verdi’s “Don Carlo” in terms of its numerous versions. The truth is that the opera, like the Italian composer’s counterpart, has no definitive version. Mussorgsky originally released a version of the opera in 1869 but then went about revising it, expanding on musical material and {…}
Mozart’s operas are collections of some of the art form’s most iconic characters. A survey through the works of classical music’s most iconic creator, who turns 261 on Jan. 27, will reveal one complex being after another. The lengthy list is unlike any other in perhaps any art form. Every character shines brightly in a Mozart character, whether he be {…}
On Jan. 26 two operas had their premieres and are now part of the standard repertoire. The first opera was Mozart’s “Così Fan Tutte” in 1790 and the second was Strauss’ “Der Rosenkavalier” in 1911. Both operas are from different periods and completely different in style, but they have one in common. Many Mozartian singers who take on one opera, wind {…}
For decades Marcello Giordani was a fixture at the Metropolitan Opera, taking on many of the classics of the operatic canon as well as some lesser known works. He made his debut in 1993 as Rodolfo in “La Bohème” and has gone on to sing over 200 performances. The tenor, who is celebrating his 54th birthday on Jan. 25, also {…}
On Jan. 24, 1835 Bellini premiered his final opera, “Puitani.” Despite being beloved for its beautiful melodies and incredible coloratura challenges, the opera is also known for its ludicrous story line. This season the Metropolitan Opera is presenting the work with an all star cast and a new diva. The Met has always used the opera as a showcase for {…}
A month ago Russell Thomas surprised Metropolitan Opera audiences with his immense voice and gleaming high notes. The role was the small but crucial part of Ismaele in Verdi’s “Nabucco.” While this is a character that can sometimes be ignored, Thomas brought undisputed star power to it. With such a big breakout, Thomas is set for another milestone in his {…}
