September 18, 2020

Lyric Family Favorites: March 5

So often in opera our heroes face tragic fates. But these crises, like Anne Boleyn facing her own death by execution, provide opportunity for some of the grandest and most dramatic musical expressions. The explosive finale of Donizetti’s Anna Bolena is a perfect example, and soprano Sondra Radvanovksy brought down the house in Lyric’s 2019 production of The Three Queens. Please enjoy this spine-tingling performance of “Coppia iniqua.”

Then, sit down for a chat with tenor Brandon Jovanovich on the Sing Louder podcast, explore how Black composers shaped the sound of American classical music, and find more great opera to watch in our weekly streaming guide. 

Sing Louder with Brandon Jovanovich

Composer Jake Heggie (Dead Man Walking) speaks with tenor and Lyric favorite Brandon Jovanovich about his journey from bass to powerhouse heroic tenor, and from waiting tables at Metropolitan Opera parties to starring on its stage.

Meet Brandon

How Black composers shaped the sound of American classical music

Classical pianist and NPR music host Lara Downes has launched a new project, Rising Sun Music, which aims to “reframe the history of American classical music by embracing its diverse origins and composers of color.”

Dive in

Die Walküre from Lyric’s 2017/18 production

Week of March 8: Streaming opportunities

This week hear classic operas by Puccini, Wagner, and Mascagni, new works from Opera Colorado, Pittsburgh Opera, and The National Museum of Mexican Art, and more!

Mark your calendar

Photos: Todd Rosenberg, Cory Weaver, Granger