Ricky Ian Gordon
Ricky Ian Gordon
The Emmet O’Neal Library is hosting a preview event for opera composer Ricky Ian Gordon on Sept. 29. From 6-8 p.m., Gordan will discuss his chamber operas, Orpheus & Euridice and Green Sneakers, which will be presented in the spring as part of Opera Birmingham’s 2015-16 season.
“One of the great opportunities we have with our chamber operas is that they were written by living composers,” said Keith A. Wolfe, general director of Opera Birmingham. “We don’t have the chance to talk with Mozart or Puccini about their operas, so this conversation is a rare treat to hear about what inspired these compositions. Ricky is so passionate about his work, I can’t think of a better way to learn about the operas we’re presenting in March.”
The conversation with Gordon will touch on the inspiration for the two operas, how he settled on the unique combinations of voices and instruments used in these works, and the composition process.
“The creation of these works have interesting backgrounds, and I’m looking forward to learning more about their history,” Wolfe said. “And I’ve always been fascinated about how composers work – everyone’s process is different.”
The event will also include an opportunity for the audience to ask questions about the works.
Gordon writes art song, opera and musical theater pieces, and his songs have been performed and/or recorded by singers such as Renee Fleming, Dawn Upshaw, Nathan Gunn, Judy Collins, Kelli O'Hara, Audra MacDonald, Kristin Chenoweth, Nicole Cabell, the late Lorraine Hunt Lieberson, Frederica Von Stade, Andrea Marcovicci, Harolyn Blackwell and Betty Buckley.
The Sept. 29 event is the first of a series that will take place throughout the year to provide the community with a better understanding of what the Opera Birmingham offers and to help demystify an art form that, on the surface, may seem intimidating.
This event is free and open to the public, but reservations are appreciated. To reserve your attendance, please call Opera Birmingham at 322-6737 or info@operabirmingham.org.
For more information on Ricky Ian Gordon and his works, visit rickyiangordon.com. For more information on Opera Birmingham and upcoming performances, visit OperaBirmingham.org or call 322-6737.
