April 02, 2020
Lyric Family Favorites: April 3
What are your weekend plans? Are you venturing out for a walk to catch a glimpse of spring sunshine, or will you be cuddled up on the couch with a cup of tea watching your favorite movies? If you’re heading out to work, we at Lyric extend a deep and sincere thank you to our essential workers who are making it possible for the rest of us to stay at home in safety.
As for us? We’ll be perfecting our pots-and-pans-only version of the Anvil Chorus.
In the meantime, please enjoy learning more about the legendary Tito Gobbi, testing your Lyric know-how, a video of some of our favorite artists performing together virtually, and this previously unreleased footage of tenor Lawrence Brownlee in our 2018 production of Bellini’s I Puritani.
A baritone you can’t refuse: meet the “godfather” of Lyric
The Italian baritone Tito Gobbi (1913-1984) was an astoundingly versatile artist, with well over 100 roles in his repertoire. Among American companies, he was most closely associated with Lyric, where he sang 21 roles and for years was unofficially known as the "godfather" of the company. Learn more about Tito Gobbi and listen to a tribute from George Preston, WFMT's general manager.
Two legends come together virtually
Renée Fleming and Evgeny Kissin perform Schubert’s “Ave Maria”
Pianist Evgeny Kissin and soprano Renée Fleming, Lyric's own special projects advisor, were to appear at Chicago Symphony Orchestra in collaboration with Lyric this April. Though that performance has been canceled, they met virtually to perform Schubert's moving "Ave Maria."
A fun quiz for your weekend
How well do you know Lyric?
How well do you know Lyric's history? Here is your opera-tunity to test your knowledge!
The music we sing has been loved in many past generations and will continue to flourish and find life and love in the future.
Thank you for being an important part of our Lyric family. The consequences of our recent cancellations are substantial. Contribute to The Heroes' Fund today and your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar.