Puccini is undeniably one of those names that will forever be linked with opera. Born on Dec. 22, 1858 (his full name was Giacomo Antonio Domenico Michele Secondo Maria Puccini) in Lucca, Italy, he was set to occupy the position of maestro di cappella after his father’s death. However, he was only six-years-old and unable to occupy the position his {…}
There was a rather sad preamble to the premiere of Puccini’s “Turandot” at Teatro Real on the 30th of November, 2018, largely due to the cancelation of Nina Stemme in the title role. The Swedish dramatic soprano had just scored a major success during the run of Wagner’s “Der Ring des Nibelungen” at Royal Opera House, Covent Garden in London {…}
UPDATE Per the Teatro Real’s Press Office: “Artistic director, Joan Matabosch, contracted Ms. Alberola, almost three years ago, to perform Liù, he thought that her voice would evolve in a different way. During the rehearsals of “Turandot,” Mr. Matabosch and the soprano agreed that it would be better not to go on with Liù now and to offer her another role in {…}
“Opera Meets Film” is a feature dedicated to exploring the way that opera has been employed in cinema. We will select a section or a film in its entirety, highlighting the impact that utilizing the operatic form or sections from an opera can alter our perception of a film that we are viewing. This week’s installment features “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Queen’s {…}
Eva Marton, born on June 18, 1943, is arguably the most famous Hungarian soprano of the last few decades. She studied at the Franz Liszt Academy and made her professional debut at Hungary’s Margaret Island Summer Festival. Then at the Hungarian State Opera, she appeared for the first time in “The Golden Cockerel” in 1968. From there she made her {…}
The Detriot Symphony Orchestra’s “Turandot” has announced two cast changes for its June 2018 performances. First, Jader Bignamini will conduct the performance, stepping in for Leonard Slatkin, who was forced to withdraw from the final three programs of the season to undergo heart surgery. As a result, maestro Slatkin needs three months to fully recover and return to conducting. Additionally, Bass Morris {…}
Swedish soprano Birgit Nilsson is arguably the ultimate Wagnerian soprano. Born on May 17, 1918, Nilsson grew up on a farm with parents who had hoped she would grow up to perpetuate this lifestyle. But music came early to her at the age of three and she noted herself in interviews that she could sing before she could walk. She {…}
Ghena Dimitrova, born on May 6, 1941, was a powerhouse soprano in every possible way. Known for a massive instrument, she would go on to sing some of the heaviest repertoire possible throughout her career. Her massive voice was recognized from her youth when she sang in the school choir in her native Bulgaria. She was offered a spot at {…}
“Opera Meets Film” is a feature dedicated to exploring the way that opera has been employed in cinema. We will select a section or a film in its entirety, highlighting the impact that utilizing the operatic form or sections from an opera can alter our perception of a film that we are viewing. This week’s installment we will take a {…}
The Arena di Verona has announced its casting for the 2018 festival, showcasing some of the biggest stars in the opera world. Here is a breakdown of what stars will grace the stage of the famous arena. Carmen Three mezzos take on the iconic role of “Carmen” including Anna Goryachova and Carmen Topciu. They are joined by four Don José’s including Brian Jagde, {…}
Premiering on April 25, 1926, Puccini’s final opera “Turandot” has always suffered a controversial legacy. The opera is a fixed repertory staple best-known for one particular piece of music. And yet, it would be hard to claim it the composer’s greatest work overall, as he died before its completion. Puccini famously struggled with writing its ending and upon his passing {…}