Hindemith’s Das Marienleben has a formidable reputation, but is rarely heard. Soile Isokoski could change all that. This cycle is a tour de force, but tours de force need singers capable of achieving them.
Author: Anne Ozorio
Ned Rorem premiere at Oxford Lieder Festival
Ned Rorem’s Evidence of Things Not Seen received its European premiere at the Oxford Lieder Festival.
Ruxandra Donose stars in L’heure Espagnole at the Royal Opera House
Ruxandra Donose sings ConcepciÛn in Ravel’s L’heure Espagnoie in a double bill with Gianni Schicchi at the Royal Opera House. ConcepciÛn is an unusual personality, so Miss Donose’s characterization is interesting.
The Truth about Love — unusual new work by young American singer and composer.
Steven Ebel is a young American, and a member of the Royal Opera House’s Jette Parker Young Artists Programme, which nurtures young singers and theater artists, and commissioned this unusual new work, The Truth about Love.
Wozzeck in designer khaki : Salonen and Keenlyside in London
In the opera house, stagings can impress by gorgeous sets and costumes. But in semi-staged performances, there’s no where to hide behind. Semi-staging tests whether a director understands the music and what its dramatic soul might be. In dramaturgy, less is more.
Imogen Cooper’s Birthday at the Wigmore Hall
This wasn’t an ordinary concert but something very special. The Wigmore Hall was honouring Imogen Cooper on her 60th birthday. She is greatly loved here, both as soloist and as partner in song recitals. The atmosphere was electric. The house was packed, with many famous pianists and singers in the audience. It was a historic occasion, but it felt like a party among friends.
Tristan und Isolde more rooted in tradition than meets the eye
Over 100 years ago, Adolphe Appia sketched designs for Tristan und Isolde that have influenced theatre design from Alfred Roller to Wieland Wagner. Appia’s vision came to life on stage at the Royal Opera House this week. This new production has far deeper roots in tradition than its detractors realize.
Goerne sings Schubert at the Wigmore Hall
When Matthias Goerne sings, it’s never superficial. Lieder is a genre that needs almost as much engagement from listeners as from performers. “It’s like a church in there”, someone said to me about the Wigmore Hall. “They’re really listening”.
Oxford Lieder – Britain’s top Song Festival
In the autumn, Oxford is especially beautiful. The ancient colleges are swathed in scarlet vines, and the mellow evening light creates great atmosphere. For those who love art song, though, the best reason for visiting Oxford at this time of year is the Oxford Lieder Festival, which starts October 16th 2009.