Tonight I happened upon a free event (with free tasty treats) at the central library branch. It was an informal master class with 2 sopranos singing Strauss’ last 4 songs. Very difficult, beautiful pieces, setting a few of Hesse’s poems to music.
The musical director of the Vancouver Opera society presided over the event, told jokes, and elucidated very much about how these pieces are rehearsed, sung, orchestrated, and their relation to Richard’s life, death.
If anyone has a chance to see any more of these Vancouver Opera informal events, I highly recommend it.
