Instrument: Choir / Chorus

The punishing role of Medea is forever associated with Maria Callas. To celebrate the diva’s centenary, Greek National Opera presents a new production by Sir David McVicar, starring Italian soprano Anna Pirozzi.

Rarely does a concert entirely devoted to a big Mahler Symphony later acquire a second half, let alone one containing just twenty minutes of a cappella singing. 

 This was opera which found expression using modern technology in a way that did not offend, intimidate or distract the audience, but rather enhanced the experience.

The composer's powerful When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd anchored a thought-provoking program led by Michael Stern.

Blue could hardly have been better rendered than here. Indeed, I wish every opera I see could be staged with such grace and finesse. 

Daniel Harding made a memorable debut with the Czech Philharmonic, aided by a superb chorus and cast of singers.

Director Federico Tiezzi's production offered an intimate interpretation of the second opera in the Ring cycle.