(Credit: Ken Howard / Metropolitan Opera)

With the exception of one opera, this weekend’s recommendations are a combination of rare works that are either being heard for the first time or rarely make the stages in the U.S.

Rest in Pieces – Bard Conservatory Graduate Vocal Arts Program & The Orchestra Now

Curated and directed by famed mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe, in collaboration with John Jarboe, this work is a celebration of opera combining music by Bizet, Puccini, Mozart, Strauss, and Copland. That might seem like a weird mix and it is for that reason that this world premiere is worth checking out. In the hands of Blythe, one of the most fascinating risk-takers in the business, this is a must watch experience on March 6 and 8.

Marian’s Song – Houston Grand Opera

The second and final performance of the world premiere production of this work by Deborah D.E.E.P Mouton and Damien Sneed is set for Friday night. The new work will star Zoie Reams as the iconic Marian Anderson.

Der Fliegende Holländer – Metropolitan Opera

Wagner’s early masterwork gets an all-new production at the Metropolitan Opera headlined by Anja Kampe and Evgeny Nikitin under the musical direction of Valery Gergiev. The performance scheduled for Friday is bound to be a fantastic musical display.

Il Postino – Opera Santa Barbara

Daniel Catán’s famed opera gets just two performances on Saturday and Sunday with Raul Melo, Daniel Montenegro, Sarah Vautour, Julia Metzler, and Suzanna Guzman in starring roles. Kostis Protopapas conducts and Crystal Manich direct. The production runs on Saturday and Sunday.

La Wally – Sarasota Opera

Another opera that barely appears anywhere in the States, “La Wally” has one of the most iconic arias ever composed. Caitlin Crabill will perform the title role alongside Rafael Davila in a production by Stephanie Sundine, who previously took on the title role with the company. The production opens on Saturday.