It's been a while.

So its been a while and things have been busy, but good.

The opera season at the Met is shaping up to be a good one. After the let down opening night, things bounced back with Der Rosenkavalier on October 16th. Renee Fleming, Susan Graham, and Miah Persson were all exemplary. Having never seen a Richard Strauss opera live, I didn't know how much I would enjoy it, but I have to say I was pleasantly suprised. The singing could not have been better.

Renee was the perfect Marschallin, dignified and regal. Her voice loves Strauss. The Marschallin's Act I monologue was a favorite, as she recounts how she will age. The sadness in Fleming's voice was very audible.

Susan Graham was woderful as Octavian, youthful, energetic, and funny. The presentation of the rose was beautifully sung while the start of Act III was wonderfully funny.

Miah Persson's beautiful, lyric voice was well suited to the role of Sophie. Best of all was the Act III trio, well worth the wait. The three blended beautifully, Fleming soaring above the orchestration.

Next up was Il Barbiere di Siviglia on October 31. My first time seeing Joyce DiDonato live and she is worth every penny. The way she handles the difficult Rossini coloratura is amazing, but more so how she puts so much feeling into the role. I have seen Rossina played as simply a light, fun loving girl who falls in love. Joyce gives it so much more. She feels every note, when she falls for Almaviva she loves him with her all. She explored all facets of the character. Una voce poco fa was fun loving and playful. Contro un cor was a highlight for me. Parts were playful, parts were full of longing; it was perfect.

Barry Banks did a commendable job as Count Almaviva. He has a bright, beautiful voice and he sings Rossini well. I felt his acting left a bit to be desired, but only a bit. He came into character fully in Act II, where he was funy and passionate. Cessa di più resistere was a highlight.

What a great opera; I'll never tire of it!

I had the oppportunity to meet Joyce backstage afterward and she is as bubbly offstage as on. It is always nice to learn that the person behind the character is lovely as well.