Description
Storytellers from ancient Greece to the soap operas of today have focused the family as a source of conflict. Opera also has its full share of family discord. Our Spring opera class will explore four widely different family disputes ranging from biblical times to mid-nineteenth century Maine. The first, Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro (1786)—a MET HD presentation— is based on the controversial play by Beaumarchais. Through the lens of comedy, Mozart focuses on the foibles and injustice of class distinction in Count Almaviva’s family estate. We will compare different singers in significant arias as well as look deeply into Mozart’s genius construction of the act two finale. Richard Strauss’ “Salome”—our next opera and a MET HD presentation—created great controversy at its premier and was even banned in London and New York. Based on Oscar Wilde’s play of the same name, Strauss’ vocal and orchestral music amplified the sexual and psychological neurosis within Herod’s household. We next turn to the effervescent music of Rossini’s “Barber of Seville”—a MET
HD presentation. This comedy revolves around the foibles of an older man desiring to marry his young ward and the chaos that ensues. Lastly we will explore Tobias Picker’s Emmeline—a 19th century version of the Oedipus story. Using soaring melodic lines, Picker involves us in the tragic real life tale of a mid-nineteenth century woman from Maine.
David Collins has been lecturing on opera in the greater Boston area for over 25 years. He had been Opera Boston’s resident lecturer for 8 years. He has given opera courses at MIT, Regis College, The Boston Center for Adult Education and The Cambridge Center for Adult Education as well as lecturing at Northeastern University. Dave is currently a trustee of The Boston Wagner Association. Dave received his Bachelor degree from Boston University’s School of Music, his Master’s from Lesley University and did post grad work at the New England Conservatory and the University of Connecticut – Hart School of Music.
PLEASE NOTE: This class begins on 4/22 and will meet on 5/13, 5/28, and 6/17
