pianist, opera coach, conductor, writer
University of Texas, Austin
“The Rules of Engagement” was a hit! Fellow UT prof and wonderful baritone David Small and I inaugurated this program last night. We had been feeling good about it, and a very gratifying response from our crowd seemed to say that they found it effective as well. David sang beautifully … Continue Reading →
Dress rehearsal of Sweeney Todd! Everybody acquitted themselves well; now it’s time for an audience. Our small theater is being used ingeniously – chorus in the house, chorus in the balcony, murdered choristers descending into the orchestra pit. What a week it’s been, rehearsals every night and now performances Friday … Continue Reading →
My fellow UT prof David Small and I rehearsed this morning for our Valentine’s Day recital, which we’re entitling “Mars and Venus: The Rules of Engagement.” The first half is comprised of texts dealing with war, including songs by Ives, Butterworth, Weill, and the stunning “War Prayer” composed by our … Continue Reading →
Here in Austin the Butler Opera Center is gearing up for performances of Sweeney Todd this weekend. We’re doing it with the reduced orchestration, which is truly remarkable – I am always impressed by the amount of color and sheer sound that can come from a small group. It’s a very spare … Continue Reading →