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FEATURE

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 02:42:08 GMT

Road to America's 250th Anniversary: More than 1776

2026 is fast approaching, and as America's 250th anniversary draws near, many arts institutions will be exploring American culture in new and exciting ways. Libraries have a unique opportunity to join this national celebration by offering their patrons engaging cultural programs that reflect on the country's past.

Opera, with its rich history and powerful storytelling, is an ideal medium for these programs. From exploring America's turbulent and inspirational formation in the 1700s to highlighting the diverse threads of American culture throughout history, opera can provide a fresh perspective. You can feature programming on iconic American opera singers or delve into memorable American operas. These presentations can leave your patrons wanting more.

Here are a few suggestions from the Opera Talks collection that can bring this theme to life:

The Power of Protest- American Opera's Response to Social Change: Explore how American composers have used opera to address pivotal moments in history, from the Civil Rights Movement to the Vietnam War.

Adams Nixon in China

Adams's Nixon in China masterfully blends historical figures with a minimalist musical score to create a captivating modern opera. This work offers a unique lens through which to examine a pivotal moment in 20th-century American diplomacy and culture. By exploring this landmark event, the program can help audiences understand how the United States navigated the global stage in the post-war era, providing a modern counterpoint to the nation’s founding.

Americana in Opera- A Musical Journey Through History:

Showcase operas that are distinctly American in their themes, settings, and characters, offering a look into the country's cultural landscape.

Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess

Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess is a powerful American opera that explores themes of community, resilience, and identity within the Gullah culture of South Carolina. The opera's deep dive into the lives of marginalized people offers a vital, complex perspective on the American experience, making it a perfect fit for a comprehensive look at the nation's history. It provides a nuanced reflection on the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the country's story over the past 250 years.

Madama Butterfly

Puccini's famous melodramatic opera, Madama Butterfly, explores the devastating relationship between a young geisha, Cio Cio San, and a U.S. Navy officer. This opera serves as a poignant, albeit tragic, examination of America's historical engagement with other cultures and the devastating consequences of cultural misunderstandings and arrogance. It provides a thought-provoking program that can spark conversations about America's global role and its impact on the world over the last 250 years.

Opera in American Pop Culture- To celebrate America's 250th anniversary, libraries can use opera in pop culture to explore how historical events and social changes are reflected in our modern entertainment. By showcasing how classic arias and operatic themes appear in movies, TV shows, and commercials, this programming offers a unique way to connect the past to the present and demonstrate opera's enduring influence on the American cultural landscape.

Name that Opera Series- From Fatal Attraction to the Toyota

This two-part series offers a fresh and accessible entry point into the world of opera by exploring its surprising presence in American popular culture. Patrons will delight in recognizing familiar tunes from blockbuster movies like The Shawshank Redemption and Fatal Attraction and iconic commercials for Velveeta and Swiffer. This unique approach celebrates how opera, a centuries-old art form, remains a vibrant and influential part of the modern American soundscape.

From the Met to Main Street: American Voices on the World Stage: Highlight the careers of legendary American opera singers who broke barriers and became global icons.

Marian Anderson

The story of Marian Anderson is an inspiring testament to the fight for equality and artistic freedom in America. This program would honor her legacy, highlighting her groundbreaking performance at the Lincoln Memorial after being denied a stage by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her life and career offer a compelling narrative of perseverance against racial prejudice, providing a vital perspective on the ongoing struggle for civil rights.

Tale of Two Divas

This program explores the legendary rivalry and contrasting artistry of two of the 20th century's most iconic sopranos, Maria Callas and Renata Tebaldi. Their careers at the Metropolitan Opera defined an era of operatic excellence and captivated American audiences, solidifying opera's place as a major art form in the United States. By examining their immense influence and their performances on the American stage, this talk celebrates a pivotal chapter in the nation's cultural history.

Leontyne Price

Exploring the career of Leontyne Price celebrates one of the most celebrated and iconic voices in American operatic history. Her artistry and pioneering career broke racial barriers, cementing her place as a global superstar and a symbol of American excellence. This talk would highlight how her success reflects the broader narrative of progress and artistic achievement in the United States over the last century.

Opera in Ebony

This inspiring program pays tribute to the trailblazing African American singers who broke barriers and achieved global acclaim on the world's most prestigious operatic stages. Featuring sound clips of legends such as Marian Anderson, Leontyne Price, Paul Robeson, and George Shirley, this lecture honors their immense talent and perseverance in the face of prejudice. This talk is a powerful and celebratory way to reflect on the long journey toward equality and artistic excellence in American history.

FEATURE

Thu, 22 May 2025 23:49:55 GMT

On a High Note:

Fall 2025 Opera Trends in the United States

Fall is opera season and what better way to bring your audience into the dramatic world of opera by using an opera talk with a performance or perhaps a complete opera performance? Top trending operas around the United States include Puccini’s La Bohème, Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess, Verdi’s Rigoletto, Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Here are quick reasons to try these opera talks this autumn.

LA BOHÈME BY GIACOMO PUCCINI

HAPPENING: METROPOLITAN OPERA, NY (OPENING OCTOBER 21)

SELLING POINTS : This opera is the most popular love story about the ups and downs of relationships. The storyline is very relatable.

keywords: love, loss, money, Paris

RIGOLETTO BY GIUSEPPE VERDI

HAPPENING: SAN FRANCISCO OPERA, CA (OPENING SEPTEMBER 5)

SELLING POINTS : A father must grapple with the same evil he tries to protect his daughter from by isolating her. The question of manhood related to duty or licentious behavior is a central theme.

keywords: lust, loss, manhood, murder

PORGY AND BESS BY GEORGE GERSHWIN

HAPPENING: HOUSTON GRAND OPERA, TX (OPENING OCTOBER 24)

SELLING POINTS : In the 1930s, George & Ira Gershwin created a controversial opera that c aptures black life in the Jim Crow South. Porgy and Bess and its history captures the question of diversity in opera on and off stage.

keywords: love, religion, murder, drugs, South Carolina

DON GIOVANNI BY W.A. MOZART

HAPPENING: METROPOLITAN OPERA, NY (OPENING SEPTEMBER 24)

SELLING POINTS : The classic story of Don Juan and is many affairs is a selling point that draw people into the storyline. The repercussions of his lustful and arrogant behavior makes a great opera for Halloween.

keywords: lust, ghost, hell, revenge, Spain

DO YOU WANT MORE IDEAS? TRY OUR FALL OPERA CALENDAR .

LATEST

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 02:31:00 GMT

Fall '24 Recap

Where I’ve Been and Where I'm Going

As I continue to prepare for 2025, I am shocked at how fast the year has gone by. 2024 proved to be a place of growth for Opera Talks and the new magazine launch.

As I enter 10 years of presenting opera in 2025, I learned many things. One thing I learned the most is that opera outreach is not for every community. Even the Newsday article that featured my work said that it was a hard sell for some communities. However, when it fits in a community, it is an instant hit. Fitting in a community has to do with how the library markets the program to their customers. I experienced this in Poughkeepsie for the local library’s event commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights movement. When the librarian contacted me in April about presenting Marian Anderson , I was pleasantly surprised about the occasion because I never thought that Marian Anderson would be presented for a Civil Rights occasion. However, the program fit the theme and was quite successful because Marian Anderson broke many barriers in a quiet and monumental way. She was a witness and testament of the trials and struggles of the Civil Rights era. I presented the program in a local church on an October night. The fact that it was Friday night, and the church hall was packed proved that great programming involves teamwork between the librarian and the programmer. The marketing angle proved to be a tremendous success for the library because the audience understood the importance of Marian Anderson not only as an opera singer but as an American Icon.

Left: Marian Anderson Opera Talk presented on October 4 for the Big Read 2024 at Poughkeepsie Library

Port Washington Public Library was another experience that used excellent marketing that drew a decent crowd. The opera talk I presented in late September was Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro . While this opera is not as popular as La Boheme, the library offered it as a way for patrons to learn something new. I took that idea and added material to the program that compared the opera to the previous opera talk I presented in March.

Marketing matters the most when offering new programming to the community… especially opera. The angle must connect to the audience in a special way that connects to their memory or curiosity. Bronxville Public Library proved that opera can connect to a person’s memory and pique a person’s interest in opera. When I presented Luciano Pavarotti in Bronxville, the audience was so curious about the opera industry and even taught me facts about Pavarotti according to their experience hearing him live for the first time.

Luciano Pavarotti was the most popular opera I presented in the fall. I presented it 7 times for libraries and assisted living locations. The Luciano Pavarotti program will return in February at Larchmont Library on the same day as the Grammy Awards. Did you know that Pavarotti was a multi-Grammy Award winner?

As I look to the future and prepare for 2025, I am grateful for a successful year. A year of learning where Opera Talks belongs and where it does not fit. A year of being open and receptive to the aappreciation for bringing excellence to all communities the best way I can. I am thankful for all of the new locations that hired me as well as my favorite locations that welcomed me back once again.

It always feels like the first time.

Thank you for a wonderful year.

Cheers.

And the No. 1 Opera Talk this Fall is...

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 01:38:39 GMT

Luciano Pavarotti and Carmen dominate

the Fall 2024 Lineup

Two Women in a Tobacco Factory in Sevilla by Constantin Meunier, c. 1883 - Museum M -

I am so grateful that Opera Talks will be a part of many libraries and senior centers fall programming. The top opera talks that I will present are Luciano Pavarotti: Tenor Larger than Life and Bizet’s Carmen . While both programs are fitting for any time of the year. However, libraries and other locations chose them because of Hispanic Heritage Month and Italian Heritage Month. While Carmen is performed in French, the storyline’s culture is from 19 ^th century Spain. The instrumentation including percussive instruments like the triangle and the tambourine reflects Spanish culture that became a part of Hispanic culture in the Western Hemisphere. The literary work originally written by Prosper Merimée was inspired by a story that Countess Montijo told him during his visit to Spain in 1830. The memorable music mirroring the syncopation and sensuality of the gypsies is infused in every detail of the opera. I cannot wait to sing the famous Habañera .

Luciano Pavarotti being honored at the Kennedy Center Honors, 2001

Opera icon, Luciano Pavarotti is truly larger than life. Many locations chose this talk because of the audience’s familiarity to him and his indelible impression on opera. Pavarotti is the only opera singer to cross over into the pop world while creating a huge opera following. Even years after his death, he is instantly recognizable to older generations. His YouTube clips garner millions of views and newer generations who never heard him sing live are awestruck by his voice heard on YouTube. After many experiences booking programs at libraries, I learn to ask libraries about their communities and how their communities consume opera. This helps me to determine what would be best to present to the community in order to maximize the audience. Other than the popular opera titles, Luciano Pavarotti is a great fit for Italian Heritage month because of his obvious upbringing in Modena, Italy and his incredible tenor voice. The program not only includes his biography but also various clips and a playlist for the audience to listen and watch on their own time.

LATEST

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 03:48:09 GMT

Spring-Summer '24 Recap

Where I’ve Been and Where I'm Going: Tanisha presents her new opera series- Parents in Opera

It’s always nerve wracking to present a new series to the audience. However, I have so many new ideas that I want to create for new opera programs. The Parenthood series was an idea that I thought about since last year. I finally got the time to create it with notable mothers and fathers from famous operas. The audience learns each mother or father’s perspective as it relates to the characters around them especially their children. The Mother, May I opera program debuted in May right after Mother’s Day while Father, May I made its debut right after Father’s Day. The mothers I include in Mother, May I are : Azucena from Verdi’s Il Trovatore , Bess from Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess and the Queen of the Night from Mozart’s Magic Flute . The fathers featured in Father, May I are: Germont from Verdi’s La Traviata , Amonasro from Verdi’s Aïda and Wotan from Wagner’s Die Walküre .

The audience enjoyed the new series and even had comments about their own memories with their parents.

June and July were full of famous opera talks like La Bohème, Carmen and Aïda. The audience had excellent questions about new productions of these operas and questions about the characters. I distinctly remember someone asking why Mimì was upset at Rodolfo after she heard him talking about her in La Bohème. "Didn't he tell the truth about her?" asked the person. I posed the question to the audience member and asked them how they would feel if they were Mimì. From that question and subsequent thought- they agreed with her decision. I also received a beautiful comment from an audience member that sticks with me even while I type this. It was after I presented Verdi's Aida at an assisted living location. Unable to walk or move her arms, she simply said

“This was special.”

I presented Aïda in late July because of the storyline’s rich history in Egypt and the idea of summer travel to distant lands. In this opera program, the audience and I discussed the recent incidents that opera companies face with makeup when depicting the characters. These conversations lead to many audience members asking why opera companies didn’t just hire people that looked like the role. I explained to them that the decision can be a gray area because companies have to think about who can actually sing the role as well as who looks like the role. That conversation is really a panel discussion for another time.

August welcomes both virtual and live programming for libraries, senior groups and assisted living locations. I am happy to announce that I will present at the Bristal York Avenue location in NYC and for the Melville Greens Women’s Group for the first time. The opera talks on schedule are Carmen and Luciano Pavarotti.

LATEST

Sun, 19 May 2024 20:33:19 GMT

Winter-Spring '24 Recap

Where I’ve Been and Where I'm Going: Tanisha will present Opera Talks at Atria Lynbrook's Memory Unit

I was thrilled when Atria Lynbrook asked me to present at their Memory Unit in June. This will be the first time that Opera Talks will be used to help those who are memory impaired. Since 2018, Opera Talks expanded to being presented at Assisted Living locations throughout Long Island, NYC and NJ with both live and virtual programs. June will be the first time that I will present opera twice in a row- one for the residents and the other for those in the Memory Unit. The program will be Puccini’s La Boheme and of course I will sing an aria from that opera. I’m already preparing for it with many voice lessons and coachings so I’ll be ready to do the best that I can.

A cold day at Lincoln Center on my way to a voice lesson nearby.

Even though Spring is far from over, I’m still happy at how it began for Opera Talks in April. The most popular program for that time was Shakespeare and Opera: Part 1. April was the best time for it because April is Shakespeare’s birthday and Poetry Month. I presented Shakespeare and Opera (Part 1) five times in both the virtual and live format. The virtual format was for a library in Massachusetts while the live programs were for libraries and assisted living locations in Long Island. Patrons learned about operas that used Shakespeare plays and how opera composers created music for the characters. I particularly enjoyed presenting Carmen at the JCC in Oceanside because the audience enjoyed seeing famous singers from the twentieth century like Rise Stevens and Grace Bumbry.

An opera quiz book I discovered at Atria Cutter Mill in April. The Engage Life Director told me that he used this for the residents. I'm still trying to find this book to add to my collection.

A selfie of me at the Metropolitan Opera Music Library doing research for brand new opera talks using the collection I catalogued. I never knew how much the catalog would be very helpful to me.

Audience Corner

Sun, 19 May 2024 19:52:12 GMT

"In my travels, I love the questions that the audience asks me about opera or the opera industry. They are very eye-opening because many people are curious about opera and are afraid to ask questions." -Tanisha

LATEST

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 05:14:35 GMT

Where I’ve Been: Opera Talks Expands to North Carolina and Massachusetts

After a busy holiday, I returned home to New York with determination to conquer a full January and February schedule with live and online opera talks. As always, I prepare my programs on my computer, in the library on databases, reading and re-reading literary resources and in my voice teacher’s vocal studio. I take at least two voice lessons per month and I coach personally half the month. Voice lessons are crucial because they help me to keep my singing voice intact for singing and speaking. I am also revisiting old repertoire while learning new rep for future opera talks in the spring.

Waiting for the bus in front of Lincoln Center after a voice lesson. I worked on arias for January and February programs.

The view behind the bus stop. As you can see: Lincoln Center is adorned with new art honoring the old neighborhood: San Juan Hill.

January began with live and online programming. Mozart was the main edition and I presented his operas Le Nozze di Figaro and Don Giovanni in Long Island. Both programs featured live arias performed by me. You probably would like to hear it- I’m working on that. For a long time, I was quite shy about recording and presenting my arias to the world. Now, I’m taking the courage by recording the arias professionally. So they are coming quite soon…

January started with Mozart because that's his birthday month. I presented opera talks on Don Giovanni and Le Nozze di Figaro at Atria Roslyn Harbor and Atria Cutter Mill.

NORTH CAROLINA: CARY REGIONAL PUBLIC LIBRARY

My “singing talk”: Cotton- The Dream and Hope of the Slave in Spirituals and Slave Narratives began in January online for Cary Regional Public Library in Raleigh, NC. I remember receiving the email from the librarian at that library looking quite surprised. “How did she find out about me?” I asked myself looking at the email. Long story short, I had no idea that there is a private Facebook group for Library Programmers across the United States…and somehow Opera Talks found its way in that group. The online program had a high attendance and I was told that the chat was completely silent as I presented. I was glad to hear that my hard work paid off. As mentioned before, I prepared with voice lessons and I video recorded myself performing spirituals as a part of the virtual lecture. Usually I sing them in a live setting. However, video recording requires much more technical preparation -so I had to work with what I had to successfully deliver a great product. I appreciate that the librarians who assisted the Zoom meeting online were very attentive and professional. This virtual program was also great practice for February where I would present Cotton for more libraries in Nassau County.

MASSACHUSSETTS: WOBURN PUBLIC LIBRARY

Before the Opera Talk

After the Opera Talk begins...

February was a huge milestone for me because Opera Talks expanded to Massachusetts. During the fall of 2023, I received an email from a librarian in Woburn, Massachusetts who was originally interested in Opera in Ebony as a virtual opera talk. A few days later, I received a live request to my pleasant surprise. The three-and-a-half-hour drive from NYC was worth it. When my aunt and I arrived at the library, everyone was so welcoming and kind. I was astonished that so many people attended the program, from opera lovers to first time operagoers. There was even a generational difference in age because afterwards, I spoke to senior citizens, parents and even college students. One gentleman said to me: “I never went to the opera because it seemed intimidating- now you convinced me to go.”

I met the library director and she told me how honored she was to have a program like mine at her library. It was an experience that I am humbly honored to remember. What stood out the most was the eagerness that everyone had about learning about opera. “This is culture- a library ought to have this!” exclaimed a library employee. The whole time, I was even puzzled by the enthusiasm because I understand that opera is a very niche oriented form of entertainment. Oftentimes, I find myself telling librarians that opera is not for everyone. However, opera is a valuable and magical experience for those who give it a try. In my years presenting, I promised myself to refuse to push my opera product on any location. If one cannot understand and see its value- move on. I’m so glad that I found communities who do appreciate opera as entertainment and conversation. At Port Washington Library, the audience is always so enthusiastic with excellent questions. Those experiences near and far give me the motivation to continue spreading the word about the wonderful experience of Opera Talks.

TALK OF THE MONTH

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 03:38:01 GMT

Opera Talk of the Month:

Opera in Ebony- Tribute to African American Opera Singers

Opera history is also Black history. Black History Month is full of many firsts in all genres including opera. The opera genre is quite controversial because of its appeal to a wealthy audience. This appeal makes opera seem to be a niche subject that doesn't adhere to the current social climate. Black singers who excelled in opera are special because they conquered a genre that reflects European ideals. This lecture will pay tribute to legendary African American singers who performed at prestigious venues like the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and the Royal Opera House. Sound clips featuring Marian Anderson, Leontyne Price, Paul Robeson, and George Shirley will be included. Click here to learn more about this opera talk.

TALK OF THE MONTH

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 04:12:33 GMT

Opera Talk of the Month:

Make Up or Break Up- Love Duets at the Opera

Let’s face it, opera makes a relationship memorable in your mind whether the characters are in love or not. From the extremes of love or the opposite, composers including Puccini, Verdi and Mozart create duets that leave you wanting to find out what will happen to the couple or perhaps wonder if you would do what the couple just did in the scene. Hence I created the Make Up or Break Up Series so the audience can decide what they think would happen to the couple based on the music they would hear if they are not familiar with the entire plot. This series includes my favorite duets from Puccini’s La Boheme and Madama Butterfly to Verdi’s La Traviata and Otello. Lesser known composers like Charles Gounod with famous plots like Romeo and Juliet are also included. Click here to learn more about this opera talk.

WATCH

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 04:25:37 GMT

Three Mozart Operas To Watch Now

In continuing Mozart’s birthday month theme- here are three of my favorite operas composed by the prolific and famous musician. These three operas are available as opera talks by title or included in a talk that includes various operas under one theme.

1. Don Giovanni (1787)

In this opera, Mozart takes the famous Spanish tale of Don Juan and composes an opera to remember. From the downbeat of the overture, you can feel that many emotions are smoldering underneath the plot. Once the characters open Act 1, the action continues and never stops. The music keeps you stunned as the title character, Don Giovanni continues to lust over many women with no redemption in sight. After committing a crime in Act 1, one would think that the title character would retreat. Instead, Don Giovanni continues his quest for seducing as many wome as he can even if it means stealing a new bride. This opera is not to be missed.

2. Le Nozze di Figaro (1786) or

The Marriage of Figaro

This comic opera is entertaining and quite satisfying to the ear. The music is glorious and easily depicts what’s happening on stage. Based on part 2 of a French trilogy by playwright: Beaumarshais, this opera intertwines wit and deception all to a funny and redemptive ending. What started out as a storybook love story between the Count and the Countess becomes an agonizing circumstance with the Count's infidelity. Although the original plan to embarass the Count fails, the Countess uses her intelligence to carry out a modified plan originally created by Figaro.

Die Zauberflöte or the Magic Flute (1791) Premiering a few months before the composer’s death, this allegorical plot is an ode to Mozart and the librettist, Emanuel Schikaneder’s interest in Freemasonry. The fairytale-like story involves Tamino’s quest to save the young lady he falls in love with through a portrait. Pamina is presumably stuck in a castle that Tamino can only conquer through various tests with his side-kick, Papageno. Pamina’s mother, the Queen of the Night deceptively convinces Tamino that she must be avenged by saving Pamina. While the abridged English version is performed- the German version is also available to watch. The Magic Flute is available in Opera Talks: Love Duets at the Opera and in the Villains in Opera Series .

TALK OF THE MONTH

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 03:14:09 GMT

Opera Talk of the Month:

 Mozart's Le Nozze di Figaro

I love to present Mozart in January because this month is the prolific composer’s birthday month. While I present many programs using Mozart operas, Le Nozze di Figaro is very popular this month because multiple locations booked this opera talk in the past few months. Le Nozze di Figaro or the Marriage of Figaro is one of Mozart’s masterpieces that matches comedy with beautiful music. Learn more about this opera talk by clicking here .

LATEST

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 04:51:46 GMT

5 ways to start the New Year with Opera

Happy 2025! The holidays are over and the new year is here. I have so many goals and objectives for Opera Talks and more. Of course opera will always be in the background as I continue to work on more opera programming for opera lovers and the new opera audience. Here are 5 ways you can start the new year with opera.

Listen to Popular Arias Featured in Commercials or Film

Pop culture continues to use opera to sell products. Movies also use operas to propel the plot by using operas that compare with the character or perhaps operas that depict the culture of attending an opera. Look at popular brands that use opera on my Name that Opera page.

Search online to see what opera companies are currently presenting.

Some opera companies produce opera in the winter months including January. Currently, the Metropolitan Opera is presenting a new production of Carmen by Georges Bizet. While I present classic productions, Carmen is a timeless opera that will always be embraced. Learn more about Carmen .

Stream opera from your home.

While opera is preferred to be consumed in a live setting, I believe opera can also be enjoyed at home. While there are full productions on YouTube, opera companies offer streaming opportunities for a fee. Learn more about companies who offer streaming.

Join the Opera Talks Club.

In November 2023, I created the Opera Talks Club. This club is a free way to watch me present a pre-selected opera talk. Attendees also learn what is trending in the opera industry. Learn more about the Opera Talks Club.

Listen to your favorite opera singer.

Do you have a favorite opera singer? I listen to many opera singers from the past on recordings or through streaming on YouTube. I also enjoy opera singers from today by attending a live opera performance. While most of my opera talks feature my favorite productions, I also present an Opera Icon Series. The Opera Icon Series discusses each singer’s background and their rise to fame in the opera industry.

LATEST

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 02:54:24 GMT

Tanisha's Overture Number 8

Tanisha poses in the stacks of the Music Library at the Metropolitan Opera where she catalogued the archival reference section, 2018

Tanisha Mitchell celebrates 8 years of presenting Opera Talks and takes us behind the scenes with thoughts of gratitude

It was 2015 and I was promoted to hire presenters for the art lectures and classical music series at the Freeport Memorial Library. I was so excited to earn that opportunity. Immediately, I learned all that I could about art and classical music. Although I was already an opera singer with a music degree, I wanted to learn what I was about to do with the programs that were already booked by two library employees who were retiring. They were quite supportive of me taking over their tasks. One of the library programmers turned 100 years old that year and was passionate about classical music. Belle Sylvester began the Classical Music Programming in the 90s and built an excellent rapport with the community throughout the years.

During that year, I attended a classical music program about conducting and the presenter was an older white gentleman who presented at the library for years. The videos were recorded by someone else and placed on a DVD. The speaker would comment about each performer and stiffly walk back and forth from the podium to the DVD player to start and pause each clip. The information was fascinating and at that moment I said to myself: “I can do this with opera.”

After the event, I thought long and hard about the program I just attended at the library. At that time, I interned at the Metropolitan Opera in the music library and was hired to do special projects. I was also named one of Library Journal’s Movers and Shakers for my work at the Metropolitan Opera and the Opera Orchestra of New York in 2013. I was at the Metropolitan Opera for five years and learned a lot about behind-the-scenes techniques and other rare knowledge in opera productions. I believed that somehow, I could create programming with not only what I knew as a singer but also what I knew as a music librarian and archivist. I was very nervous because I never saw anyone that looked like me present opera lectures. I had many doubts about embarking on this new journey. I wondered if I would I be hired, and would my programming be enough for the audience? With encouragement from my mom and one of my colleagues, I mustered up the courage and forged ahead.

I began to work on a prototype presentation called Opera 101 for people who didn’t know about opera. During my work, I realized that I needed to come up with a name for these presentations. I reached out to my friend who was also a musician and a website developer. “You need a logo…” she frankly stated. That didn’t bother me because I created a logo with a chandelier. The chandelier represented elegance like opera, and I used it because I didn’t want to be cliché and use curtains or opera glasses. I wanted something that everyone curious enough to be interested in the programming would gravitate to and understand. The chandelier clipart I chose was elegant but clunky and hard to replicate. But I kept it for the time being while my friend worked on a new logo. I came up with the name “Steps to the Stage” because I wanted to present more than the opera but what it took to create it. My intuition inspired me to incorporate the rare items I cataloged at the Metropolitan Opera Music Library over the years. I spoke to the Chief Librarian at that time, Robert Sutherland about my idea. He was very supportive and gave me the opportunity to create facsimiles of some rare material for me to incorporate in my lectures. My friend designed the new logo, and it became the new symbol of opera programming with a new spin. The new logo was a simplified chandelier with elegant font for Opera: Steps to the Stage. I loved it so much because it represented what I was thinking and who I am as a founder and presenter. Within a few weeks the website was ready.

Marketing for the program was not easy at first. I had no budget and had to research how to market with little money. I researched the libraries in Nassau County and created an email list. I also created post cards with the new logo and the few programs that were ready to present. I only had three programs to offer: Opera 101, Opera in Ebony- Tribute to Black Singers and Goyescas by Granados. The marketing proved to work because within a few weeks I presented at my first location in Garden City on November 22, 2015.

All of my scheduled opera lectures abruptly cancelled in March 2020 due to the pandemic shutdown. However, it proved to be a blessing in disguise. Around the same time, I researched software for webinars and learned about Zoom. Before the software became ubiquitous for remote programming that year, I learned as much as I could to offer opera programming online. That year, my business grew to virtual programming and gained new locations on the East Coast. For the first time, I presented at places I never visited. It was a meaningful experience to connect to people online during a difficult time in the world. I was honored to help people escape through beautiful music and history. In 2020, I changed the company’s name to Opera Talks. While I use the same logo, I believe Opera Talks is a simplified way to describe what I love to do through live and virtual formats and will serve as an appropriate name for future projects.

Today, Opera Talks has over 27 opera programs covering operas, themes and icons with an additional series called I Hate Classical Music . IHCM boasts 6 programs that all include an animated orchestra for audience interaction.

All my programs grew from being presented at local libraries in Nassau County to libraries and other locations in Suffolk County, New York City, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Florida within a span of 8 years . A company highlight was when the Metropolitan Opera Guild invited me to present Opera Steps to the Stage as a part of the 2019-20 Metropolitan Opera season. I continued to partner with the Metropolitan Opera Guild even during the pandemic after the opera company’s closure for over a year. Opera Talks also touches the lives of many attendees including the Jewish Community Center, residents at Atria and Bristal Senior Living locations and extended learning programs at local colleges.

Never did I imagine where opera would take me in 8 years. It is always a privilege to share my gifts through Opera Talks. I look forward to more opportunities and touching the hearts of those within the sound of my voice. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t change it at all. I am grateful for the direction that Opera Talks is going and am excited about the future. Thank you.

TANISHA’S OPERA FAVORITES

FAVORITE OPERA: Il Tabarro (1916) by Giacomo Puccini. This opera is the first opera from Puccini’s Trilogy called Il Trittico. Il Trittico includes Suor Angelica and Gianni Schicchi. I love Il Tabarro because it explores the depth of love and rage at the same time.

Favorite Cast: Cornell MacNeil, Renata Scotto, Vasile

Moldoveanu Metropolitan Opera (1981). Il Tabarro is in my Halloween at the Opera series.

FIRST OPERA I EVER LISTENED TO: Giuseppi Verdi’s Il Trovatore starring Leontyne Price, Placido Domingo and

Sherrill Milnes.

FAVORITE OPERA SINGERS:

I have to admit, I listen to singers from the 20th century…Leontyne Price, Maria Callas, Renata Tebaldi, Joan Sutherland, Jessye Norman, Shirley Verrett, Grace Bumbry, Denyce Graves, Luciano Pavarotti, Lawrence Tibbett, Beniamino Gigli, Leonard Warren, Jon Vickers

LATEST

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 02:27:16 GMT

Top Headlines in Opera in 2023

This year really went by quite fast with so many happenings in opera from happy to sad to the in between. We couldn't help but to watch the glory of opera reaching the world through international events like the Coronation and we couldn't help but to mourn those who left this year with a trememendous mark in opera. Here are our picks for top stories.

11.

Read the Articles

10.

Read the Articles

Read the Articles: Grace Bumbry Renata Scotto

Read the Articles

SPOTLIGHT

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 02:14:00 GMT

Stay Warm and Watch Opera Streaming Options to Watch Opera at Home

If you are looking to enjoy opera from the comfort of your own home, this list provides a comparison of the prices and content offerings from five major opera houses across the U.S.

PBS - Great Performances and Live at Lincoln Center

(check your local station)

PBS offers a range of opera performances along with other Classical Music and Arts programming under the Great Performances and Live from Lincoln Center series. While Metropolitan Opera performances are scheduled ahead of time, some of the performances are available to view until a set date. The search feature of the PBS website can help you find operas or you can find it under the Great Performances tab.

Metropolitan Opera:

The Metropolitan Opera boasts the most robust and established streaming offerings of any major classical music institution. Not only do they feature the Live in HD broadcasts of select productions to movie theaters around the country, but they offer Met Opera on Demand. For $14.99/month (or $149.99/year), viewers can watch modern and historical productions from the opera on any device.

Lyric Opera of Chicago:

The Lyric offers Lyric Audio Streaming, which allows listeners to listen to select productions from the company’s history through major music streaming platforms. The company also offers virtual events which audiences can watch for free with registration. Unlike other major opera houses, the Lyric does not offer video streaming of its productions, which seems to be a missed opportunity, given they are a leading commissioning partner of new works and productions.

San Francisco Opera:

At San Francisco Opera, the third performance of each mainstage opera is available as a livestream, with tickets to these online viewings costing $27.50. These are offered through their in-house streaming service entitled Front Row, which offers unique digital offerings such as “In Song” and “Atrium Sessions” alongside livestreams. There are also free offerings available on Front Row.

LA Opera:

What differentiates the streaming offerings of LA Opera from the rest of the field is their unparalleled investment into original content for digital viewing through LA Opera On Now. With world premieres of new works, digital shorts, and films featuring original music, most of these digital offerings are free to view.

Houston Grand Opera:

HGO Digital is the home of live-streams from Houston Grand Opera. There are plenty of free offerings available on the service, ranging from behind the scenes materials and webinars to recital offerings and HGO Studio showcases. Rentals of full operas can range in price, though they are typically around $29.99 for 30 days of viewing.

DIVA READS FOR OPERA LOVERS

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 22:31:32 GMT

Diva Biographies and Beyond

They say that to be successful you have to study those who accomplished tremendously in their careers. Opera isn’t excluded from the entertainment world to me as an entrepreneur and a classical singer who loves to sing opera. All of these divas conquered the opera industry by storm. Their stories onstage and off stage are very vibrant and worth the read. Perhaps if you may have a friend or family member who’d like to be opera singers and need inspiration. Look no further than these book ideas. Happy Gifting.

The Inner Voice: The Making of a Singer

Renée Fleming is a recent Kennedy Center Honor recipient and is a multi-Grammy Winner who performed internationally. However the “People's Diva” came from humble beginnings.

Callas at Juilliard: The Master Classes by John Ardoin

“Maria Callas returned to the stage in 1971 to teach master classes at Juilliard. This intriguing forum later inspired Terrence McNally's acclaimed play Master Class. Outspoken and uncompromising in her artistic beliefs, Callas worked through her legendary arias from Mozart, Verdi, Rossini, Puccini, and others.”

Leontyne Price: Highlights of a Prima Donna by Hugh Lee Lyon

In this first biography of Leontyne Price, Hugh Lyon delves into Price's early life in childhood and college. There are many details that you would remember after you read it. This is Leontyne Price’s only biography that exists at the height of her career.

Cinderella and Company: Backstage at the Opera with Cecilia Bartoli by Manuela Hoelterhoff

As the director of Opera Monte-Carlo, Cecilia Bartoli is still one of opera’s reigning mezzo divas on Spotify and YouTube.

Stand Up Straight and Sing!: A Memoir by Jessye Norman

We were shocked when opera queen, Jessye Norman passed away in 2019. However, we are grateful that we are left with her excellent recordings that displayed her artistry. Norman’s words in describing her upbringing in the South to her excellence in the arts are impeccable.

Beverly: An Autobiography by Beverly Sills, Lawrence Linderman

A true Renaissance woman, Beverly Sills rose in the opera industry to become a star soprano and a notable opera administrator. Her autobiography delves into her private life and the career--as operatic star and as director of the New York City Opera.

I Never Walked Alone: The Autobiography of an American Singer by Shirley Verrett, Christopher Brooks

“An inspiring self-portrait of a world-renowned African American vocal artist. This is a fascinating account of a gifted woman's coming of age and rise to success at a time when black classical musicians faced barriers at every turn.”

The Autobiography of Joan Sutherland: A Prima Donna's Progress by Joan Sutherland

Labeled “La Stupenda” for her memorable and extravagant coloratura range, Joan Sutherland was considered one of the best prima donna’s of her time. Her fan base still exists on current digital platforms like Spotify where she’s one of the top five opera divas with the most monthly listeners.

Montserrat Caballe: Casta Diva by Robert Pullen, Stephen Taylor

Montserrat Caballe's life and career span from her childhood in war-torn Spain to her years of training and struggling as an opera singer. All adversity lead to accomplishing opera stardom and her memorable duet with Freddie Mercury. This is a true collector’s item.

GIFT IDEAS

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Tanisha's Favorite Opera Gift Ideas for less than $50

It's holiday season and a great time to give your opera loving friend or perhaps yourself these wonderful gifts compiled my Tanisha and the Opera Talks Staff. Opera Talks received a commission for items purchased on Amazon.

Opera Anecdotes by Ethan Mordden

“Mordden recounts these stories in his own unique voice, amplifying events for reading pleasure and adding in background material so the opera newcomer can play on the same field as the aficionado. Witty, dramatic, and at times a little shocking, The New Book Of Opera Anecdotes will be a welcome addition to any opera fan's library.” -Amazon

Jessye Norman: The Unreleased Masters (CD)

Jessye Norman’s posthumous album is an honorable connection to intimate moments when the diva recorded repertoire that the world did not hear when she was alive.

The Inner Voice: The Making of a Singer

Renée Fleming is a recent Kennedy Center Honor recipient and is a multi-Grammy Winner who performed internationally. However the “People's Diva” came from humble beginnings. From her youth as the child of two singing teachers through her years at Juilliard, from her struggles to establish her career to her international success, The Inner Voice is a luminous, articulate, and candid self-portrait of a contemporary artist—and the most revelatory examination yet of the performing life.

Maria Callas: Life and Art (CD)

This year and beyond is a huge celebration for Maria Callas because December 2 is her 100 ^th birthday. Callas has a huge influence on my life as an artist and this recording has one of my favorite arias: Massenet’s Pleurez Mes Yeux from his unknown opera, Le Cid.

Jackie and Maria: A Novel of Jackie Kennedy & Maria Callas by Gill Paul, Lisa Flanagan, et al.

I always wondered about the dynamic of Maria Callas and Jackie Onassis. The former First Lady of the US and the opera diva both loved Aristotle Onassis-but we all know which one married him. This fiction novel is the answer to “what if?”.

Opera Word Searches by James Adams

What better way to keep opera on your mind than with a word search? I’m such a nerd that I’ll take the words I found and search them… Will you?

Leontyne Price: Voice of a Century by Carole Boston Weatherford (Author), Raul Colón (Illustrator)

If you want to inspire a child to learn about an opera singer, this is the book to add to the collection. This picture book illustrates the illustrious and honorable career of Leontyne Price.

Leontyne Price: Prima Donna Collection (CD)

I love this recording because it contains arias from operas Leontyne Price never performed on stage. It is a keepsake that is hard to find on YouTube.

Leontyne Price: Highlights of a Prima Donna by Hugh Lee Lyon

In this first biography of Leontyne Price, Hugh Lyon delves into Price's early life in childhood and college. There are many details that you would remember after you read it. A must read!

Great Operatic Disasters by Hugh Vickers

“To its devotees, opera is the most sublime of arts. It is also one of the most accident prone, and when things go wrong, they tend to do so on a grand scale. Great Operatic Disasters records some of the most memorable calamities from opera houses around the world. Most of them are true, some have been embroidered over the years, and a few, well, se non e vero, e ben trovato.” -Amazon

Ride on, King Jesus!: Florence Quivar (CD)

Florence Quivar is one of my favorite mezzo sopranos of all time. I feature her in some of my opera talks. This album is truly a spiritual journey with excellent arrangements of spirituals. My favorite track is I am Seeking for a City. Listen to it- you’ll cry too.

LATEST

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 18:05:54 GMT

Who Was Maria Callas?

A short introduction to one of opera's brightest and influential divas celebrating her 100th birthday

Maria Callas, born on December 2, 1923, in New York City, emerged as one of the most iconic and influential opera singers of the 20th century. Her operatic career spanned from the late 1940s to the early 1970s, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music.

Callas's meteoric rise to fame began in the late 1940s when she made her debut at the Greek National Opera in Athens. However, it was her performances at the prestigious La Scala in Milan in the early 1950s that catapulted her to international stardom. Her powerful and emotionally charged voice, combined with a remarkable stage presence, set her apart as a true diva of the opera world.

Callas was celebrated for her interpretations of tragic heroines in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Bellini. Her ability to convey intense emotions through her vocal artistry and dramatic prowess made her a sought-after performer on the world's leading opera stages.

Despite her immense success, Callas faced personal and professional challenges, including a tumultuous relationship with Aristotle Onassis and vocal health issues. In the mid-1960s, her career experienced a decline, but she made a triumphant return to the stage in 1968 with a series of concerts.

Maria Callas remains an enduring legend in the history of opera, remembered not only for her vocal brilliance but also for her dramatic interpretations that brought new depth and authenticity to the characters she portrayed on stage. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of opera enthusiasts and aspiring singers. Maria Callas passed away on September 16, 1977, but her contributions to the world of opera ensure that she will always be remembered as one of its brightest stars.

WATCH

tanisha.mitchell.librarian@gmail.com (Tanisha Mitchell) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 03:30:33 GMT

When Puccini's La Bohème is

Never Too Much

Tanisha’s Favorite Productions

Fall is my favorite season because of the change in the weather and the beautiful colors of nature. Most of all, fall is opera season and what better way to bring in the season with Puccini’s famous opera, La Bohème. The famous love story between Rodolfo and Mimì is timeless and reverberates throughout pop culture especially in Broadway (RENT). My opera talk includes a few of my favorite productions where each production illustrates the storyline in a unique way. The following are my picks to watch the full production on your own.

Act 1 Scene from La Bohème starring Jussi Bjoerling and Renata Tebaldi (1955): This rare recording is from the documentary, The Art of Singing: Golden Voices of the Century. It’s one of the few videos where we see these two stars sing opposite to each other. Both singers sing their roles with simplicity and elegance. Unfortunately, I don’t think there’s a full opera video on the market so the scene would suffice.

Puccini’s La Bohème, La Scala featuring Mirella Freni and Gianni Raimondi (1967): Conducted by the legendary Herbert von Karajan, this full production has excellent singing and acting by opera’s legendary stars performing in La Scala. While the leading cast is exquisite, Adriana Martino is a standout as the vivacious Musetta.

Puccini’s La Bohème starring Neil Shicoff and Ileana Cortubas, Royal Opera House (1987): Now this one here deserves an Academy Award! The singing is great but the acting brings out every character’s personality beyond the singing. The acting is so marvelous that you can watch this without subtitles and understand exactly what’s going on.

Puccini’s La Bohème, Metropolitan Opera starring Angela Gheorghiu and Ramón Vargas (2008): In grand opera style, this MET production includes Angela Gheorghiu, the opera diva who took the industry by storm at that time with her bold personality yet delicate singing. What stands out the most to me are the grand opera moments especially in Act 2. Watch and be amazed.

Puccini’s La Bohème, Salzburg starring Anna Netrebko and Piotr Beczala (2012): If you like opera with a modern feel, choose this one. While I like traditional production, this one works for me because the singing is on point and the production is different. It’s fascinating to watch because you hear singing that is reminiscent of the past while the setting is casual full of jeans and graffiti.

Happy watching and tell me which one you liked best!

TALKS OF THE MONTH

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 03:06:51 GMT

In Celebration of the Centenary birthday

of Maria Callas

here are 7 Opera Talks that include the

memorable diva

Opera Talks always includes recordings and people I admire from my journey in opera. Maria Callas is one of the 20 ^th century opera divas who I learned about in high school when I auditioned for 9 ^th grade chorus. My high school teacher introduced her recording of Habaῆera from Bizet’s Carmen. From that day on, Maria Callas was one of my go to singers for dramatic interpretation. Here are all of the opera talks that include this marvelous diva’s unforgettable artistry.

Name that Opera

Maria Callas is featured in Part One of this Opera Series highlighting opera in TV and Commercials. Her voice is heard in the blockbuster film, Philadelphia starring Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington. She’s singing La Mamma Morta from Ponchelli’s La Gioconda while the character portrayed by Tom Hanks describes the emotional scene to Denzel Washington.

Tale of Two Divas: Callas vs Tebaldi

Both Maria Callas and Renata Tebaldi were legendary and talented in their own way. When you have two powerful divas conquering the international opera scene with similar repertoire, it is a surefire way to be a story that the press would use for more attention. This diva “rivalry” was the tabloid gossip of the mid 20 ^th century. Callas was never afraid to be seen as the “Tigress” when it came to her art.

IHCM- The Orchestra and the Diva

This opera program was created from my Classical Music Series that always includes an animated orchestra for the audience to conduct. It discusses the power of the “diva” in orchestral performances and how they all interact. Maria Callas is one of the featured singers performing Bizet’s Habaῆera from Carmen.

Confessions of a Courtesan: Verdi’s La Traviata

Maria Callas makes a special appearance in this opera talk that includes more than three different productions from the 20 ^th and 21 ^st century. The rare clip from 1958 is from The Art of Singing: Golden Voices of a Century documentary. Legendary Italian conductor, Nicola Rescigno discusses how Maria Callas forsook her beautiful voice with a crack every night in the last act. Her poignant explanation for her cracking was the fact that her character, Violetta is dying. Her boldness and dedication to the character allowed her to do something unappealing in order to bring out the dramatic interpretation of the role.

Joan Sutherland: La Stupenda

I had to include Maria Callas in Joan Sutherland’s opera talks because at the time Sutherland was a young opera singer at the Royal Opera House, she sang many roles including Clotilde opposite Maria Callas in Bellini’s Norma in 1952 . Within a few years, Sutherland would become the reigning Bel Canto sopranos just like the notable Maria Callas. And of course, Callas saw it coming because she flew to London just to see Sutherland’s dress rehearsal of Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor. Lucia was a role performed by Callas all around the world. In classic diva style, upon her arrival, she explained to Franco Zeffirelli that she wanted to see the production because she was in the same production in Dallas. Everyone knew she came to see and hear Joan Sutherland.

Puccini’s Tosca & Halloween at the Opera

Tosca is one of Maria Callas’s famous roles because she uses her vocal and dramatic prowess to conquer it dramatically. A memorable performance is one of her last performances at Royal Opera House in 1964 opposite Renato Cioni as Cavarodossi and Tito Gobbi as Scarpia in a legendary Zeffirelli production conducted by Carlo Felice Cillario. The scene in Act 2 when Tosca confronts Scarpia is one of opera’s most dramatic scenes and Callas interprets it like the dedicated artist she’s known to be. Watching it always gives me goosebumps because her power comes through the character… I also had to include this scene in Part 1 of my Halloween at the Opera Series because the sheer horror on her face is fit for such an event.

WATCH

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 02:04:36 GMT

Top Joan Sutherland Recordings that Tanisha Loves

Dame Joan Sutherland (1926-2010) , the renowned Australian dramatic coloratura soprano, left an indelible mark on the world of classical music with her exceptional vocal prowess and dramatic interpretations. Her best recordings showcase the full extent of her extraordinary talent and contribute to her legacy as one of the greatest operatic voices of the 20th century. What stands out most in her voice is her ability to do coloratura. According to the Oxford dictionary, coloratura is elaborate ornamentation of a vocal melody. This style of singing became popular during the Baroque and Classical periods of opera in the 16th to 18th century. It wasn't until the Bel Canto period in the early 19th century that Bel Canto became the opera genre that put the voice front and center especially the soprano lead. This type of repertoire was where Joan Sutherland's vocal ability made her famous. From high C's to even high F's above the treble staff, Joan Sutherland's voice was pure and full. Not only did I hear this from the recordings, I also found this out from the former Metropolitan Opera Head Archivist, the late, Robert Tuggle (1932-2016). He told me that her voice was "unusually full and loud in the upper register." That is not common for sopranos because usually that part of the voice is light and can be shrill. This diva's upper register was the total opposite and that made it exciting.

Sutherland's iconic performances of bel canto works, particularly those by composers like Donizetti and Bellini, stand out as some of her most celebrated recordings. Her rendition of Donizetti's "Lucia di Lammermoor" is often hailed as a definitive interpretation, characterized by her impeccable vocal technique, dazzling high notes, and a deep emotional resonance that brings the character to life.

Additionally, Sutherland's collaborations with conductor Richard Bonynge, who also happened to be her husband, produced numerous gems in the operatic repertoire. Their interpretations of works by Handel, Rossini, and Mozart are marked by Sutherland's brilliant coloratura, exquisite phrasing, and a vocal agility that remains unparalleled.

Notably, her recordings of the operas of Giuseppe Verdi, such as "La Traviata" and "Il Trovatore," showcase her versatility in handling the dramatic demands of the Italian repertoire. Sutherland's powerful yet nuanced performances in these roles demonstrate a depth of expression that cements her status as a true operatic legend.

Joan Sutherland's best recordings encapsulate the breadth and depth of her extraordinary vocal abilities, offering a timeless testament to her mastery of the operatic art form. Her legacy endures through these recordings, allowing audiences to revel in the beauty and brilliance of one of the greatest sopranos in history. Subsequently, here are my top three favorite recordings featuring the one an only Australian diva.

Lucia di Lammermoor Gaetano Donizetti Metropolitan Opera, 1982

One of Joan Sutherland's most famous portrayals of Lucia di Lammermoor at the Metropolitan Opera was actually one of her last performances with the venerable opera company. The cast is stellar and the electricity is in the air because this was the beginning of her retiring from the stage.

The Art of Joan Sutherland, Collector's Edition, Box Set

This box set brings back so many memories for me as a college student studying voice while working at the library. The library ordered this set and I listened to it on repeat. It highlights her performances throughout her career. My favorites on this recording are all of her Mozart recordings especially the aria "Non mi dir" from Mozart's Don Giovanni.

Sutherland-Horne-Pavarotti "Live From Lincoln Center"

Another exciting and historical recording is from 1981 at Lincoln Center. Joan Sutherland, Marilyn Horne and Luciano Pavarotti were at the height of stardom during different parts of their careers. Sutherland was a few years shy from retirement, Horne was in the middle of an illustrious career and Pavarotti was just getting started in becoming one of the world's most famous opera singers. The chemistry on the stage with Sutherland's husband, Richard Bonynge is unparallelled.

Happy watching and tell me which one you liked best!

LATEST

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 19:47:09 GMT

Opera Talks featured in Long Island's Newsday

Tanisha poses after her Halloween at the Opera program at Huntington Public Library in October

Mitchell said she is thrilled to be able to share her love of opera, which she called “otherworldly.” It’s special, she added, because it is “a combination of all the arts . . . these characters are relatable but also larger than life.”

Tanisha Mitchell's opera programs are featured in Long Island's premiere newspaper, Newsday

When I received the email asking to be interviewed in Long Island’s Newsday, I was thrilled. Barbara Schuler wrote an excellent article about the speaker route in libraries and how we all offer special topics that cater to popular and niche audiences. Along with 2 fantastic speakers: Clive Young and Marc Courtade. I was interviewed about my love for opera and how I created Opera Talks. When I look back on creating this platform in 2015, I never would have imagined how it would grow from being presented throughout the East Coast to begin featured in Library Journal and now Newsday . Read and enjoy!

FEATURE

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 20:53:31 GMT

The Delectable 5: Top Opera Talks Booked by Multiple Locations

Photo: American mezzo-soprano, Risë Stevens (1913-2013) as Carmen. Stevens is featured in the Carmen opera talk.

What can I say- it’s been a wonderful ride presenting opera for the past years. I’m always honored to present online or in person sharing my insights. The best part is when the audience asks great questions that I may or may not know. Those inquiries cause me to learn more about the subject. After presenting Opera Talks in over 100 locations, I notice that those who book the program like to start with something popular to maximize the interest of their library patrons or rather their own audiences. After a tally of what I did over the years, here are the top 5 programs:

L UCIANO PAVAROTTI:

TENOR LARGER THAN LIFE

5. Luciano Pavarotti: Tenor Larger than Life - I am not surprised that Luciano Pavarotti is now in the top five of programs I present. This opera talk highlights the humble beginnings of Pavarotti and his rise to stardom. There will never be such a famous tenor that brings opera into the households of people outside of the opera world as charming as this singer.

M AKE UP OR BREAK UP:

LOVE DUETS AT THE OPERA

4. Make up or Break Up-Love Duets at the Opera:

I created Love Duets at the opera so the audience can guess which couples outlasted adversity versus those that did not. The duets featured in this series are full of passion and drama that makes beautiful music and leaves a lasting conversation.

MARIAN ANDERSON:

AMERICAN ICON

3. Marian Anderson: American Icon - This opera icon has an indelible reputation in the arts and American History. Marian Anderson’s admirable poise allowed her to focus and break barriers with her contralto voice.

CARMEN

2. Carmen : One of my first programs I created, Carmen will always be one of opera’s triumphs in pop culture. It continues to be the most popular opera in the world. The influence of the rebellious Carmen reflects today’s society especially in pop culture. Audiences love the productions I choose for them to watch fully on their own time. The voices are glorious.

NAME THAT OPERA: OPERA IN FILM AND MOVIES

*1. Name that Opera- Opera in Film and Movies: This is the top program because it connects to pop culture. Audiences learn opera featured in popular films with movie stars that they may or may not saw. Then the specialty is showing the same opera clip in the context of the opera and how the opera connects to the plot of the characters. It makes you think twice about listening to that commercial or watching that film with opera. I always tell the audience that what they learn will be a great icebreaker for a future party they will attend.

FEATURE

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 02:37:51 GMT

In honor of the late, great Renata Scotto:

Tanisha's Favorite Opera Decoded

Most people ask me “What is your favorite opera?” When I reply, I usually get a puzzled look because some people don’t know about Il Tabarro . The opera is the first installment of Puccini’s trilogy, Il Trittico. It premiered at the MET in 1908. I first listened to it via CD from the library. One recording featured Leontyne Price, Sherrill Milnes and Placido Domingo.

The other recording featured Renata Scotto with Tito Gobbi. While I was intrigued by the suspense that I heard, nothing prepared me for the DVD. It was a night in late August that I’d never forget. When I watched the artistry of Renata Scotto playing a jilted wife who wanted out of a marriage with a vulnerable older man, I was sold! Her acting allowed the soul of the character to reach out of the television and wrap around you. At that moment, I understood the weight of wanting to get away from something that seemed to never end. Her castmates: Cornell MacNeil and Vasile Moldoveanu were the perfect colleagues to bring about this unforgettable plot. If you don’t watch any other opera for Halloween, please watch this. You’ll never forget it.

As an Amazon Associate, Opera Talks earns

from qualifying purchases.

WATCH

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 01:12:30 GMT

The Elements of Horror:

Opera That Will Keep You Up at Night

What is really scary in entertainment? Rather what makes something scary? Opera’s history from day one always used music, words and plots that make you gasp. I always explain these elements in my opera talk series: Halloween at the Opera where I use plots that showcase horror and suspense to the core. Sometimes opera related horror to relationships and the negative affect of something going wrong. Here are my top operas that I like to watch during the Halloween season with my favorite productions you can buy for your collection.

Mozart’s Don Giovanni

A rather ghostly tale about a charlatan who just can’t get it together. Don Giovanni’s sexual appetite continues to spiral out of control especially when he messes with the wrong daughter.

Verdi’s Il Trovatore

The opera is special to me because it was my first full opera I listened to when I was in high school. What’s spooky about this opera is all a case of misunderstanding that costs the lives of lovers because of a vendetta gone wrong. Azucena is the mysterious gypsy who is an outcast and branded evil by the Count. But will he catch his own judgment?

Puccini’s Tosca

While Tosca is in the regular canon of top operas performed around the world, it has a Halloween element too. Italian diva Floria Tosca is caught between a rock and a hard place when her boyfriend, Cavaradossi is jailed by Baron Scarpia. Although Scarpia is correct about Cavaradossi’s illegal activity in favor of Napoleon, he only wants one thing from Tosca. That “one thing” drives Tosca to do the unthinkable. Maria Callas's rendition of Tosca is quite memorable-especially her indelible performance in 1964.

Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor

Blood, blood and more blood-not until you get to the wedding ceremony. How horror filled is that? Lucia di Lammermoor is in love with Edgardo but is forced to marry Arturo. Poor Arturo is in the wrong place at the wrong time because he was chosen by Lucia’s brother, Enrico as revenge against Edgardo. Lucia’s madness causes her to commit murder and the evidence is all over her white dress.

Wagner's Flying Dutchman

Now this is a chilling tale about redemption. Dutchman is quite infamous for his unfortunate circumstance. He's cursed to roam the seas for seven years and is given a chance to be free by finding true love. Just when the opera opens in the first act, we see he's given a chance to find true love through a sailor's daughter in exchange for a huge treasure. But the real question is: what is really redemption? Is it freedom to love or freedom to die? Is Dutchman really a ghost or just a lost human being trying to find love? Nope, there are no spoiler alerts here. Find out yourself.

Happy watching and tell me which one you liked best!