Tag: 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 →

Interlude: Handel’s Enduring Influence

Handel's lasting influence remains in the operatic world. His operas which were rarely performed a generation or two ago, have found renewed life in the 21st century. Why? Not for the first time here, the music makes its own case. Consider this album from one of the most exciting singers in the opera world today: … Continue reading Interlude: Handel’s Enduring Influence →

Handel and Opera

As much as I love Handel’s oratorios, his 42 operas are his supreme achievement. Another digression. I met my wife in the Spring of 1998 and we got together, in no small part, because my father developed a very serious tumor and was in the hospital for most of the next year. Over the course … Continue reading Handel and Opera →

Baroque Music IX: Jean-Philippe Rameau (1683-1764)

Of that generation of composers who were born in the decade between 1675 and 1685, there is a good argument to be made that Jean-Philippe Rameau had the greatest influence.  Not Bach.  Not Handel.  Not Vivaldi.  In fact, the term “baroque” was derived from a pejorative comment made about Rameau’s Hippolyte et Aricie: Jean-Baptiste Rousseau … Continue reading Baroque Music IX: Jean-Philippe Rameau (1683-1764) →

Telemann and Opera

Telemann’s operas have fallen largely out of favor:  I cannot recall one being given a major production in my lifetime in NYC.  That is unfortunate, as he and Handel were responsible for essentially creating the Germanic opera tradition.  Here is a selection from his best-known opera, Der geduldige Socrates. Rodisette’s Aria, which is occasionally selected … Continue reading Telemann and Opera →