Putting The Class Back In Classical

What we’re listening to today

Before I get started, just let me mention that is a fantastic compilation of opera arias and duets.  Especially for the novice opera aficionado, I would consider this album a must own.  It’s 2 CD’s, and covers many of the most famous classics.

I don’t really understand why people don’t like opera.  What is it about opera that turns you off?  Perhaps it’s a preconceived notion of a fat lady in a viking hat, singing simply for the result of shattering the goblet.  Opera isn’t all squeal and vibrato.  It’s a good thing I’m here to help you, isn’t it!

While I like many opera pieces that feature the women, it’s the male voices I really enjoy.  Even then, I enjoy the the baritones and bass more than the tenor.  I suppose the same can be said for women.  Works that feature the mezzo-soprano or contralto are far more appealing to me than the standard tenor/soprano fair.  I appreciate the unexpected in music, and I just love the depth and richness that the lower notes have to offer.

Besides, having always been an alto confined to the role of accompaniment for most of my life, I love it when the ones who are usually singing the harmony parts get a chance to be featured.  I’m a sucker for rooting for the little guys.

So, for my first post about opera, we’re going to listen to my most favorite duet in the whole wide world.  This one sends chills up my spine.  It is track 14 on the above CD, a selection from Georges Bizet .  And no.  It’s not from Carmen.

This is from Les pêcheurs de perles, or The Pearl Fishers.  The duet is Au fond du temple saint, and is sung with a baritone and a tenor.  If this piece of music doesn’t just take your heart, toss it around, shove it up your throat and back again, then I don’t know what will.

Remember to check the rules!

And so we begin… (more…)