A Sneak Peek into the Opera and Vocal Performances at the 86th Annual Festival
The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, one of Italy’s most prestigious music festivals, has just unveiled its highly anticipated lineup for the 2024 season. With a rich history spanning over eight decades, the festival continues to captivate audiences with its exceptional opera and vocal performances. From classic masterpieces to contemporary works, the 2024 season promises to be a celebration of artistic excellence. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights of this year’s program.
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 come to life on stage, featuring a stellar cast including Aitana Sanz-Pérez, Sandro Lombardi, Elena Ghiaurov, and Annibale Pavone. With its evocative music and enchanting storyline, “Peer Gynt” promises to be a captivating start to the season.
“La Principessa di Gelo” Conducted by Giuseppe La Malfa
Performance Date: Feb. 15-18, 2024
Next on the program is “La Principessa di Gelo,” conducted by Giuseppe La Malfa and directed by Manu Lalli. This production promises to transport the audience to a world of icy enchantment. Starring Eunhee Maggio, Valentina Corò, Olha Smokolina, Alfonso Zambuto, Maya Quattrini, and Chiara Casalbuoni, this opera is set to be a visual and auditory feast.
Mendelssohn and Brahms Program by Danbi Lee and Min Chung
Performance Date: Feb. 23, 2024
Renowned violinist Danbi Lee and pianist Min Chung join forces for a captivating program featuring the works of Mendelssohn and Brahms. Their virtuosity and musicality are sure to shine through as they bring these beloved compositions to life. This performance is a must-see for classical music enthusiasts.
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 blend of humor and beautiful music. Marco Filippo Romano leads the cast in the title role, alongside Sara Blanch, Nikoletta Hertsak, Yijie Shi, Lorenzo Martelli, Markus Werba, and Matteo Mancini.
Rossini’s “Stabat Mater” with Nikoleta Kapetanidou, Aleksandra Meteleva, Dave Monaco, and Pablo Ruiz
Performance Date: March 29, 2024
The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino presents a breathtaking performance of Rossini’s “Stabat Mater,” conducted by Vitali Alekseenok. This powerful choral work will feature the exceptional talents of Nikoleta Kapetanidou, Aleksandra Meteleva, Dave Monaco, and Pablo Ruiz. The program also includes Johann Sebastian Bach/Anton Webern’s Da Musikalisches Opfer, providing a fascinating juxtaposition of musical styles.
Bruckner, Mahler, and Zemlinsky Program Conducted by Daniele Gatti
Performance Dates: April 13, 2024
Daniele Gatti returns to the podium for a program that showcases the works of Bruckner, Mahler, and Zemlinsky. With Sara Blanch as the soloist, this performance promises to be a mesmerizing journey through the rich orchestral landscapes of these renowned composers. Prepare to be swept away by the symphonic grandeur and emotional depth of these masterpieces.
Recital by Teresa Iervolino and Francesco Pareti
Performance Date: April 14, 2024
Soprano Teresa Iervolino and baritone Francesco Pareti join forces for an intimate recital featuring the music of Saverio Mercadante. Their exquisite voices and expressive interpretations will bring Mercadante’s compositions to life, offering a unique and captivating musical experience.
Puccini’s “Turandot” Directed by Zhang Yimou
Performance Dates: April 21-May 3, 2024
The grandeur of Puccini’s “Turandot” takes center stage in a visually stunning production directed by Zhang Yimou. Olga Maslova and Eunhee Maggio share the title role, while Carlo Bosi, Simon Lim, Angelos Samartzis, Ivan Magrì, and Valeria Sepe complete the stellar cast. With Zubin Mehta at the helm, this production promises to be a feast for the senses.
“Jeanne Dark” Conducted by Alessandro Cadario
Performance Date: May 14-18, 2024
Alessandro Cadario conducts the powerful opera “Jeanne Dark,” featuring an exceptional cast including Elia Schilton, Alexia Voulgaridou, Olha Smokolina, Lorenzo Martelli, Alfonso Zambuto, Anicio Zorzi Giustiniani, Giovan Battista Parodi, Gianluca Margheri, and Davide Piva. This thought-provoking production, directed by Valentino Villa, explores the complexities of Joan of Arc’s story, presenting a fresh perspective on this historical figure.
Puccini’s “Tosca” Conducted by Daniele Gatti
Performance Dates: May 24-June 8, 2024
Daniele Gatti returns to the podium for a riveting production of Puccini’s timeless masterpiece, “Tosca.” This production, directed by Massimo Popolizio, features the extraordinary talents of Vanessa Goikoetxea and Francesco Meli in the lead roles. Prepare to be transported to the tumultuous world of love, politics, and betrayal in this iconic opera.
Roberto Abbado Conducts a Program of Puccini, Verdi, Cilea, and Tchaikovsky
Performance Date: May 29, 2024
Renowned conductor Roberto Abbado leads a program that showcases the works of Puccini, Verdi, Cilea, and Tchaikovsky. This diverse repertoire promises to take the audience on a musical journey through different eras and styles, highlighting the genius of these celebrated composers.
Luigi Nono Program by Francesco Gesualdi and the GAMO Ensemble
Performance Date: June 5, 2024
Francesco Gesualdi and the GAMO Ensemble present a program dedicated to the works of Luigi Nono. Known for his avant-garde compositions, Nono’s music pushes the boundaries of traditional classical music. This performance offers a unique opportunity to explore the innovative and thought-provoking world of Nono’s music.
“Pierrot Lunaire” and “Gianni Schicchi” Double Bill
Performance Date: June 10, 2024
In a captivating double bill, Arnold Schönberg’s “Pierrot Lunaire” and Giacomo Puccini’s “Gianni Schicchi” come together on one stage. This juxtaposition of two contrasting works offers a fascinating exploration of different musical styles and storytelling techniques. Prepare to be enthralled by the creativity and depth of these masterpieces.
Goffredo Petrassi’s “Salmo IX” and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5 Conducted by Daniele Gatti
Performance Date: Oct. 7, 2024
Closing the season with a flourish, Daniele Gatti conducts Goffredo Petrassi’s “Salmo IX” and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5. This powerful program promises to leave a lasting impact, showcasing the emotional intensity and technical brilliance of these two remarkable compositions.
Conclusion:
The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino’s 2024 season is set to be a remarkable celebration of opera and vocal performances. From classic favorites to contemporary works, the festival offers a diverse array of productions that will captivate audiences and showcase the extraordinary talent of the performers. Whether you’re a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of classical music, the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and artistry of this timeless art form. Don’t miss out on this exceptional festival that promises to be a highlight of the cultural calendar in 2024.
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