William Bolcom has never allowed expectations about words such as "composer" or "classical" get in the way of writing the music that interests him. Join us as we celebrate the variety and color of Bolcom's musical world as he turns 80.
There are many times when opera plots seem far fetched -- stories that we can't possibly relate to in our everyday lives. But you might find a common thread or two in Minnesota Opera's production of 'Thais,' which runs through May 20. Check out our stunning photo gallery.
Grammy-winning baritone Lucas Meachem sings the demanding role of the monk Athanael in the Minnesota Opera production of Massenet's 'Thais.' He spoke with Steve Staruch about the preparation that goes into learning and acting the role.
The stars of Minnesota Opera's production of Verdi's 'Rigoletto' join Steve Staruch in the Maud Moon Weyerhaeuser Studio for a conversation about their roles. Baritone Olafur Sigurdarsen, soprano Marie-Eve Munger, and tenor Joshua Dennis share their insights about what makes 'Rigoletto' one of Verdi's most popular operas.
The 1919 scandal that rocked Major League Baseball takes center stage when the Minnesota Opera presents the world premiere of 'The Fix' as part of its just-announced 2018-19 season. It's one of four works that Minnesota audiences will be seeing for the first time when the season starts in October, in addition to encore performances of the Pulitzer Prize-winning 'Silent Night.'
'Dead Man Walking' is the most produced new opera of the 21st century. The Minnesota Opera stages the piece starting this weekend. Soprano Karen Slack and mezzo Catherine Martin join Steve Staruch in the studio to talk about their emotional roles and sing two pieces.
Richard Wagner created some of the most satisfying music to experience, especially when performed by artists gifted with a voice suitable for his work. In preparation for Classical MPR's reairing of Minnesota Opera's 2017 production of 'Das Rheingold' on Thursday, here are some of the best moments from Wagner's 'Ring Cycle.'
The lives of three Minnesota music makers have intersected throughout the years. But it wasn't until recently, when the eldest was packing up for a move to California, that their paths began to run more in parallel lines. It's all thanks to a treasured collection of classical albums on vinyl.
