LA Opera Podcasts: Behind the Curtain

Latest Episodes:

Communicating St. Matthew Passion through Choreography: Dr. Ariane Helou and Kitty McNamee Feb 16, 2022

Show notes

In this podcast, Dr. Ariane Helou, a scholar whose research focuses on drama, music and poetry in early modern Europe, and artist and choreographer Kitty McNamee discuss choreography and communication in the music, libretto and visuals of Bach's St. Matthew Passion.

From the Vaults: Renowned Opera Artist Maria Ewing and UCLA's Michael Hackett Feb 09, 2022

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LA Opera is proud to share this special conversation recorded on November 9, 2015 between renowned opera artist Maria Ewing and Michael Hackett of UCLA. Throughout her remarkable career, Miss Ewing astonished audiences with her searing performances in both soprano and mezzo-soprano roles. As one of the early leading artists at LA Opera, she spoke with Dr. Hackett as part of LA Opera's oral history project to discuss her career, roles and a life in opera. We celebrate Maria Ewing's life, honor her legacy and remember her artistry and performances across the world.

Revisiting the Canon with Dr. Kristi Brown-Montesano Feb 02, 2022

Show notes

In this podcast, which continues our Exploring the Operatic Canon series, Dr. Kristi Brown-Montesano takes us through the influences on the canon and helps us to examine the nature of opera as well as the possibilities and challenges for its future.

The Accessibility of Opera's Origins and Futures with Dr. Tiffany Kuo Jan 25, 2022

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In this podcast, which continues our Exploring the Operatic Canon series, Dr. Tiffany Kuo discusses the identity and accessibility of the traditional canon, from production to reception, and the ways in which we can discover new works and address equity in the performing arts today.

The Origin and Directions of Opera with Dr. Naomi André Jan 21, 2022

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In this podcast, which continues our Exploring the Operatic Canon series, Dr. Naomi André discusses the Italian origin of opera and the concept of the operatic canon, as well as changes and influences over the years and some of her joy as she looks forward to the inclusion of wonderful new works.

James Conlon on History, Opera and Composers of the 19th and 20th Century Jan 14, 2022

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In this podcast, the first of an Exploring the Operatic Canon series, Maestro James Conlon discusses one of opera lovers' favorite parts of the canon: the operas of the 19th and 20th centuries. From Verdi to Stravinsky, Maestro Conlon shares his wisdom and insight.

Opera Happy Hour: Countertenors Jan 05, 2022

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Jeremy Frank, LA Opera's Associate Chorus Master, is actually a man of many talents: conductor, pianist, educator and... mixologist? He is certainly the delightful host of LA Opera Connects' popular Opera Happy Hour web series. In this podcast version of the episode, join Jeremy for a piano-side chat all about countertenors. Jacob Ingbar, a current member of our Young Artist Program and all-star countertenor, pops in for some musical conversation and speciality sipping vermouth (a rare cocktail to match his rare vocal Fach).

Behind The Curtain - Holiday Special Dec 24, 2021

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In this special episode of Behind the Curtain, join LA Opera's Senior Director of Artistic Programs Joshua Winograde and Domingo-Colburn-Stein Young Artists as they share and dive into their favorite songs and recordings to listen to during the holidays. Follow the link below for full-length recordings featured in this episode. https://www.laopera.org/discover/podcasts/behind-the-curtain-holiday-special/

Opera Happy Hour: Holiday Special Dec 16, 2021

Show notes

In this podcast, Associate Chorus Master Jeremy Frank explores classic operatic holiday tunes in an episode of Opera Happy Hour. If you're ready for an Opera Happy Hour, sip (and sing) along with Jeremy as he plays favorites from "La Bohème" and "Die Fledermaus" with a festive Manhattan in hand. For an even more participatory experience, head over to the video linked in the description and enjoy. This episode aired originally in December 2020. https://www.laopera.org/discover/la-opera-on-now/la-opera-on-now-all-events/holiday-opera-happy-hour/

Family Days Special: Cinderella Dec 07, 2021

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In this special episode of Behind the Curtain, the whole family can discover the story of Rossini's opera Cinderella (La Cenerentola). Introduce your young ones (and the young at heart) to spunky Cinderella (no damsel in distress here), who overcomes adversity and finds true love with the dashing prince. This unforgettable family-friendly comedy delivers laughs, love and, of course, stunning music. Come feel the magic for yourself at our Family Days event on Sunday, December 12. Get your tickets at laopera.org