Satie’s Parade, Poulenc's Les Mamelles de Tiresias, and Ravel's L'Infant et les Sortileges had their premiere at the Metropolitan Opera as a remarkable triple bill (sets by David Hockney!) in 1981. Seated at the rear of the orchestra section in Row AA was your truly, surrounded by many of the great and the good of … Continue reading A Night at the Opera
Tag: Met Opera
Interlude at the side of the road: Luigi Cherubini
When Beethoven was asked to name the greatest living composer, his answer was Luigi Cherubini. When asked to name his favorite composer of operas, Beethoven's answer was the same: Cherubini. Rarely performed, perhaps Cerubini's music is due for reevaluation? Before diving into his music, a few words about the man are needed. Cherubini was blessed … Continue reading Interlude at the side of the road: Luigi Cherubini
The Firing of Anna Netrebko
You would think that writing a blog on music history would be a safe refuge from politics. This week shattered any such illusion. So let it be said here, plainly and with no ambiguity—Peter Gelb is a coward and a fraud. He has overstayed his welcome and it is beyond time for him to go. … Continue reading The Firing of Anna Netrebko
A Gertus History of Music 