A Sneak Peek into the Upcoming Opera and Vocal Performances at the 86th Annual Festival
The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, one of Italy’s most prestigious music festivals, has recently unveiled its highly anticipated 2024 season. This year’s edition promises to be a celebration of opera and vocal performances, showcasing a diverse range of repertoire and featuring world-renowned artists. From classic masterpieces to contemporary works, the festival aims to captivate audiences with its exceptional programming and artistic excellence. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights from the upcoming season.
Grieg’s “Peer Gynt” Conducted by Nikolas Nägele
Performance Date: Jan. 15 & 16, 2024
The festival kicks off with a mesmerizing performance of Grieg’s “Peer Gynt,” conducted by the talented Nikolas Nägele. This timeless Norwegian tale will be brought to life by a stellar cast, including Aitana Sanz-Pérez, Sandro Lombardi, Elena Ghiaurov, and Annibale Pavone. Prepare to be transported to a world of enchantment and adventure as the music of Grieg weaves its spell.
“La Principessa di Gelo” Conducted by Giuseppe La Malfa
Performance Date: Feb. 15-18, 2024
Giuseppe La Malfa takes the baton for a captivating production of “La Principessa di Gelo.” Directed by Manu Lalli, this opera promises to be a visual and auditory feast. Eunhee Maggio, Valentina Corò, Olha Smokolina, Alfonso Zambuto, Maya Quattrini, and Chiara Casalbuoni headline the cast, bringing their exceptional talent to the stage. Prepare to be swept away by this tale of love, passion, and sacrifice.
Mendelssohn and Brahms Program with Danbi Lee and Min Chung
Performance Date: Feb. 23, 2024
Danbi Lee and Min Chung join forces for a remarkable program featuring the music of Mendelssohn and Brahms. These two virtuoso musicians will showcase their technical brilliance and emotional depth as they bring these beloved compositions to life. Prepare to be moved by the sublime melodies and intricate harmonies of these musical geniuses.
Donizetti’s “Don Pasquale” Conducted by Daniele Gatti
Performance Date: March 15-24, 2024
Under the baton of Daniele Gatti, Donizetti’s comedic masterpiece, “Don Pasquale,” takes center stage. This production, directed by Jonathan Miller, promises to be a delightful romp filled with laughter and mischief. Marco Filippo Romano leads the cast in the title role, joined by an ensemble of talented performers including Sara Blanch, Nikoletta Hertsak, Yijie Shi, Lorenzo Martelli, Markus Werba, and Matteo Mancini.
Rossini’s “Stabat Mater” with Nikoleta Kapetanidou and Aleksandra Meteleva
Performance Date: March 29, 2024
The festival continues with a stirring performance of Rossini’s “Stabat Mater.” Conducted by Vitali Alekseenok, this powerful piece will be brought to life by the exceptional voices of Nikoleta Kapetanidou and Aleksandra Meteleva. The program also includes Johann Sebastian Bach/Anton Webern’s Da Musikalisches Opfer, adding a touch of musical brilliance to an already captivating evening.
Bruckner, Mahler, and Zemlinsky Program Conducted by Daniele Gatti
Performance Dates: April 13, 2024
Daniele Gatti and Lorenzo Fratini collaborate for a program that showcases the works of Bruckner, Mahler, and Zemlinsky. With the talented Sara Blanch as the soloist, this performance promises to be a symphonic journey through the depths of emotion and musical expression. Prepare to be moved by the grandeur and intensity of these masterpieces.
Saverio Mercadante Recital with Teresa Iervolino and Francesco Pareti
Performance Date: April 14, 2024
Teresa Iervolino and Francesco Pareti take the stage for a mesmerizing recital featuring the music of Saverio Mercadante. These talented performers will bring the composer’s works to life, showcasing their vocal prowess and interpretive skills. Prepare to be transported to a world of lyrical beauty and emotional depth.
Puccini’s “Turandot” Directed by Zhang Yimou
Performance Dates: April 21-May 3, 2024
Zubin Mehta conducts a spectacular production of Puccini’s “Turandot,” directed by the renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou. This visually stunning opera will feature Olga Maslova and Eunhee Maggio in the title role, supported by a stellar cast including Carlo Bosi, Simon Lim, Angelos Samartzis, Ivan Magrì, and Valeria Sepe. Prepare to be enchanted by the timeless tale of love and sacrifice set against the backdrop of ancient China.
“Jeanne Dark” Conducted by Alessandro Cadario
Performance Date: May 14-18, 2024
“Jeanne Dark,” a captivating opera conducted by Alessandro Cadario, takes the audience on a mesmerizing journey through the life of Joan of Arc. Elia Schilton, Alexia Voulgaridou, Olha Smokolina, Lorenzo Martelli, Alfonso Zambuto, Anicio Zorzi Giustiniani, Giovan Battista Parodi, Gianluca Margheri, and Davide Piva bring their exceptional talent to this production, directed by Valentino Villa. Prepare to be moved by this tale of courage, faith, and destiny.
Puccini’s “Tosca” Conducted by Daniele Gatti
Performance Dates: May 24-June 8, 2024
Daniele Gatti returns to the podium to conduct Massimo Popolizio’s production of Puccini’s beloved opera, “Tosca.” Vanessa Goikoetxea and Francesco Meli lead the cast in this dramatic tale of love, jealousy, and political intrigue. Prepare to be captivated by the passionate performances and the unforgettable music that has made “Tosca” a timeless masterpiece.
Roberto Abbado Conducts a Program of Puccini, Verdi, Cilea, and Tchaikovsky
Performance Date: May 29, 2024
Roberto Abbado takes the audience on a musical journey with a program featuring the works of Puccini, Verdi, Cilea, and Tchaikovsky. This captivating performance promises to showcase the breadth and depth of these composers’ genius. Prepare to be swept away by the emotional intensity and lyrical beauty of these iconic compositions.
Luigi Nono Program with Francesco Gesualdi and the GAMO Ensemble
Performance Date: June 5, 2024
Francesco Gesualdi leads the GAMO Ensemble in a program dedicated to the works of Luigi Nono. This performance promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of contemporary music, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions. Prepare to be immersed in a world of sonic experimentation and artistic innovation.
Double Bill: “Pierrot Lunaire” and “Gianni Schicchi”
Performance Date: June 10, 2024
Arnold Schönberg’s “Pierrot Lunaire” and Giacomo Puccini’s “Gianni Schicchi” come together in a captivating double bill. This unique combination of two contrasting works promises to be a feast for the senses, showcasing the versatility and diversity of opera. Prepare to be enthralled by the avant-garde expressionism of Schönberg and the comedic brilliance of Puccini.
Goffredo Petrassi’s “Salmo IX” and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5
Performance Date: Oct. 7, 2024
Daniele Gatti conducts a powerful program featuring Goffredo Petrassi’s “Salmo IX” and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5. This performance promises to be a profound exploration of human emotion, reflecting the triumphs and struggles of the human spirit. Prepare to be moved by the intensity and depth of these masterpieces.
Conclusion:
The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino’s 2024 season is set to be a celebration of opera and vocal performances, showcasing a diverse range of repertoire and exceptional talent. From timeless classics to contemporary works, the festival promises to captivate audiences with its artistic excellence and thought-provoking programming. Whether you are a seasoned opera lover or a newcomer to the world of vocal performances, the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and enthralled.
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