September 18, 2020

Lyric Family Favorites: February 19

The tale of two star-crossed lovers has persisted as a theme in art for centuries, and it’s easy to see why with operas like Lucia di Lammermoor, perhaps the most famous of all bel canto tragic operas. The characters’ passion and desperation comes across readily in the voices of Edgardo, portrayed here by tenor Piotr Beczała, and Lucia, sung by soprano Albina Shagimuratova. We hope this clip of one of Donizetti’s finest duets, “Verranno a te sull'aure” from Lyric’s 2016 production, warms up your weekend.

Plus, learn more about the trailblazing contralto Marian Anderson, get ready for the premiere of Sole e Amore with special drink recipes from Lyric, and find more great music to stream next week in our weekly guide.

How Marian Anderson became the voice of the century

American contralto Marian Anderson faced enormous challenges on her path to fame and success as an artist, with Jim Crow laws at home and racist institutions abroad. But her incredible talent led her to become a legendary voice and a civil rights icon.

Hear her story

Lyric Libations: Sole e Amore

Are you planning to join us for the premiere of Sole e Amore this Sunday, February 21? If so, you’ll find the perfect beverage for the occasion with our Lyric Libations recipe guide. Each drink is inspired by the music you’ll hear, a collection of songs by beloved Italian composers.

Stir up some fun

Falstaff from Lyric’s 2007/08 production

Week of February 22: Streaming opportunities

For the final week of frigid February, escape the Chicago winter with Verdi’s Il trovatore from the Metropolitan Opera, a new commission from Opera Philadelphia, San Francisco Opera’s production of Verdi’s Falstaff, and more.

Get streaming

Photos: Todd Rosenberg, Kyle Flubacker, Dan Rest