Orchestra will be star of this symphonic tribute to age-old tradition
HYANNIS, MA—September 6, 2017
Almost every opera has at least one hit “tune” that everybody knows - that catchy little number used in TV commercials, cartoons and blockbuster movies.
The Cape Symphony season opener will feature a variety of these well-known pieces in “opera gala” style for Opera’s Greatest Moments II on September 16 & 17.
“The opera gala is a buffet of the best hits. It doesn’t necessarily feel like a concert, but instead feels more like a variety show,” explained Pak, who credited opera singer Luciano Pavarotti for this top hits-style concert.
The show will open with "The Marriage of Figaro Overture", a very famous, lively piece often featured in cartoons for its comedic melodies. But the orchestra will have more serious works to perform as well. Richard Wagner’s "Die Meistersinger (Mastersingers) Overture," is the opening piece of an opera about a competition between singers in a guild of craftsmen. Pak calls it a “brilliant overture and a true showpiece for the orchestra.”
For Opera’s Greatest Moments II, the Cape Symphony has partnered with one of the country’s finest opera companies, Boston Lyric Opera, presenting four of their most talented singers: Soprano Chelsea Basler, Mezzo-Soprano Heather Gallagher, Tenor Jon Jurgens and Baritone David McFerrin.
“We chose these singers for their personalities and charisma,” said Pak, who emphasized the importance of having performers that can portray characters even without costumes and sets.
These vocalists are four up-and-coming opera stars that have the stage presence and pipes to not only technically pull off these songs, but to also easily engage and wow the audience. Each performer will have a solo spotlight opportunity before banding together for Verdi’s "Bella figlia della’more (Daughter of Love)," a rarely performed opera quartet.
A fast moving concert, Opera’s Greatest Moments II will feature over a dozen arias and overtures from twelve different operas in a range of moods and styles.
The Cape Symphony is proud to feature Chelsea Basler, Heather Gallagher, Jon Jurgens and David McFerrin of Boston Lyric Opera in Opera’s Greatest Moments II on Saturday, September 16 at 7:30 PM and Sunday, September 17 at 3:00 PM.
For more information or to purchase tickets visit capesymphony.org or call 508.362.1111.
Media Contact:
Jen Pitta, Public Relations Specialist
508-954-0160;
About Cape Symphony & Conservatory
Cape Cod’s very own orchestra, Cape Symphony, performs at the Barnstable Performing Arts Center in Hyannis. From popular hits to magnificent classics, highlighting hidden gems and putting a new twist on standards, the emphasis is always on fun, surprises, and beautiful music. Led by Artistic Director and Conductor Jung-Ho Pak, the Cape Symphony provides an experience like no other. Cape Conservatory’s commitment to education for all ages includes musical instruction as well as classes in dance and art at campuses in West Barnstable and Falmouth. Its Pre-School program is known for blending traditional academics with the arts. Through MusicWorks! Everyday and other community outreach programs, Cape Conservatory brings an array of engaging programs to thousands of students on the Cape and Islands. Visit www.capesymphony.org and www.capeconservatory.org for more information.
