If one listens closely, the orchestration’s structure, the thematic content of each scene, and the musical context emerge, revealing the composer’s intentions. Moreover, the ingenuity of the librettist and production team, the conductor’s interpretation, and the performers’ expressiveness also become apparent. Why was a particular instrument assigned to a specific scene? Why does bassoonist Billy’s tone always shine so brightly, producing textures entirely different between Dead Man Walking and familiar Italian opera? Why is the Maroon unison always precise? Why is Silvio’s timing and reed work on the clarinet impeccable? Why can Yannick infuse infinite emotion into the violin tutti? The answers are evident when you watch.
Read MoreTchaikovsky's Salvation, Queen of Spades at Met Opera
At the Met’s Queen of Spades, Herman, consumed by gambling, betrays Lisa to learn the Countess’s secret, leading to Lisa’s suicide and his own. Tchaikovsky’s drama blends corrupted aristocracy, aching folk songs, and Herman’s tormented passions. Stunning contrasts of love, riveting choruses, and Sonya Yoncheva’s tragic Lisa made it unforgettable.
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