Maria Callas, Master Class at Juillard

A perfect Saturday morning

Two amazing ladies hit the door step this morning! :)

Last night's Un ballo in mascara at the Met

I had not seen the score but have read the liberatti -- I love the story, which is based on an assassination attempt on Napoleon III, the censors in Naples basically wanted to gut the whole opera to keep any political incorrectness under away. Whenever a production is "modernized", it meets challenge. One of the biggest challenge is the potential negative reaction from the audience who are use to traditional set ups. I remember back when I saw "Gianni schicchi" in Philadelphia ( a shout out to my Philly singers!!), as soon as the lights went off and the curtain raised, we were given the full view of the minimalist stage set up. The lady behind me complained instantly -- "Well, that's IT for me...!" I could never understand why she judged the entire production value based on a mere look. NOW I GET IT! In Un ballo, I wanted to see the historical context in its origin, and I was afraid that my experience would somehow be compromised because of David Alden's modern approach. Also, I had been curious about Keith Miller and Kathleen Kim. One is a former football player turned classical singer; the other a friend of a friend. I'm glad I was able to see both in one production. So, on the next scout, Aida coming soon!

A Documentry of Edita Gruberova

Edita Gruberova is one of the most celebtrated sopranos of today -- She is still working; helping young artists and doing master class all over the world.  Watching her preforming is like having a master class of its own, so energetic and so vivid, especially with high notes sang in such ease and joy.. Most women at 62 would assume that they have accomplished their "mission", Gruberova has all and some --she still has a world renowned career and reputation as one of the most beloved coloratura sopranos of the time. But most of all, she continues to be an inspiration for today's and tomorrow's artists. This is a must watch for singers and opera lovers.

So True!!

The Yankee Diva posted this, I just can't help but sharing it with my fellow singers!

Ain't that the TRUTH??