Well, the chorus and principals are conducting joint rehearsals this week, and things are really heating up! The presence of chorus members has heightened the sense of urgency and danger for the principals, and their performances are sharper and very convincing.
As usual, the chorus arrived very well prepared, thanks to Chorus Master John Schmid (who this year is celebrating his 25th season in his post—congratulations and thank you John!). And it is a good thing, since they got vigorous direction from Joseph Bascetta.
Vocally the chorus plays an important role in Il Trovatore, not just producing the famous Anvil Chorus, also throughout. In our current production, they also make their presence known dramatically, especially during the dramatic confrontation between the Count and Manrico.
They are very physically involved in the drama, as threatening armies, as guards snatching the grieving Manrico from the dead Leonora, and restraining the unfortunate Azucena as though she were a wild animal. Quite a workout!
And throughout our principals are singing wonderfully together—very balanced vocally. In both principals and chorus, we have the best of both musical and dramatic worlds. This production is shaping up to be one of our most memorable! Hope to see you there!
Jim
Chorus members portraying soldiers of the evil Count di Luna rehearse their threats.
I like and read them all. Keep them coming.
These blog entries really deliver the immediacy and excitement of your productions as they take shape.