cbspt002@abnjh.UUCP (Marc E. Kenig @ ATT-IS Piscataway NJ) (05/21/84)
<this line dedicated to all of the inaudible contraltos of the world>
I second the Ziferelli (sp?) Traviata movie as perhaps the best to hook
a non-opera goer. My dad works with your typical non-clasical type who,
prodded by my father went to see the flick. Can't stop talking about
opera now.... <flame on> Unfortunately, he probably will next see a 'Dead from
The Met' next featuring ol' lantern-jaw Sutherland playing statue with
Paul Plishka *sigh* <flame off>
For those without vid-disk, I recommend a La Traviata on HMV by the
ENO (Masterson, et al, Mackerras). It is in English, with a translation
that doesn't seem like it was done by a high-school student with an
Italian-English dictionary. Very listenable, very difficult to find outside
of NYC.
Speaking of the ENO, if you want to hook someone on Opera and happen to be
in one of the cities on the 1st American tour of the company (now thru June
30, consult Opera for sked), try their Rigoletto. The "gangster"(Jonathan
Miller) version, set in New York City's Little Italy in the 1950's, which has
of late caused a good deal of press. It is also in English (a more difficult
translation than their Traviata) and is GREAT! Lot's of fun even if you can
sing La Donna Mobile in your sleep. A "must see" unless your Italian Anti-
Defamation club happens to be picketting. Gilda sung by Masterson (I am
member #1 (and only?) of the US Valerie Masterson fan club). Check it out!
In response to the articles on Opera in English I can only point to the
newer ENO xlations. They are excellent and do not compromise the music.
I once asked a London musico why the ENO sings amost all in English, and he
replied, "Have you ever heard an Englishman attempt to sing in a foreign
language?". Tempting flames, I suggest that the same can be said of
America, too. I would also like to point out the experiment by the
New York City Opera of using a "sub-title machine" during live performances.
Pretty awful idea I think, but have not experienced it. Probably very
distracting.
As for comments about the whether Gilbert & Sullivan belong on this net. I
vote yes. It can only be done justice by trained voices ("Poor wandering
one" is written in one key - Rondstat (sp?) needed it re-written in 4 keys!),
has some beautiful classical arias (in the less popular ones), and some
good orchestral section (minus overtures save Yeoman of the Guard). I wouldn't
suggest G&S for an intro to opera unless it was by a good professional group -
Opera a la Carte (W. coast) or NY Gilbert & Sullivan Players [NYGASP]
(E. coast). Oh yes, the ENO has brought their Patience although they're not
doing it in many cities.
M. Kenig, Member NY Gilbert & Sullivan Society, Sir Arthur Sullivan Society
AT&T-IS
S. Plainfield NJ
...!abnjh!cbspt002