There are many reasons why Giacomo Puccini’s La bohème is among the most popular works in the operatic repertoire. Its beautiful, romantic score, full of soaring melodies, boasts of several hit tunes, like “Che gelida manina”, “Quando men vo’”, and what fellow singers affectionately refer to as “The Bass National Anthem” – “Vecchia zimarra”. Based … Read more
The Los Angeles Opera Buffs have impressed us again, this time with a stunning concert performance of Puccini’s La Bohème. At Zipper Hall at the Colburn School in Downtown Los Angeles, almost every seat was taken in the audience and onstage. While “the Buffs” have been hosting showcases and scenes for more than twenty years, … Read more
The Opera Buffs gala on Sunday, August 20 was not only a resounding success, it was a surprisingly intimate performance of an incredibly dramatic work. Located at the Colburn School’s Zipper Hall, filled to capacity and brimming with excitement, the Opera Buffs organized a concert version of Bizet’s Carmen. This, the first of what one … Read more
This year’s Christmas concert from Angeles Chorale was a real holiday treat, especially since I haven’t heard them myself in quite a few years. This historic and impressively well-organized choral organization is now led by artistic director John Sutton, and it’s clear that the group is thriving, with a well-crafted program and a crowd that enthusiastically filled … Read more
Now in its 17th year, the annual “Opera in the Park” event hosted by the Palm Springs Opera Guild of the Desert comes up this weekend, featuring nine rising stars of opera — you’re sure to recognize at least a face or two: top to bottom above, the featured performers are Lauren … Read more
Vocal focus from CCMN* SOUTHERN CA VOCAL EVENTS Lauri D. Goldenhersh’s Weekly Highlights Big week(s) ahead… This column will reach a little further than usual, as I’ll be taking next week off for a little Easter break. (Are you ready to dye eggs yet?) Choral music is at the forefront this week, with Lenten selections … Read more
Emerging stars return to Royce Hall for one of classical music’s greatest masterpieces It’s a Requiem that’s more opera than mass. With some of the most spectacular choruses and solos in the repertoire, this monumental work packs a punch. UCLA’s Choral Union and Philharmonia welcome current students and alumni for one performance only. Verdi’s Messa … Read more
