As part of the Concerto Competition, the Orchestra@UWaterloo has had instrumental soloists many times before. However, this term was the first time we had a series of opera singers (unamplified voices that project over a live orchestra) along with a large chorus. The concept started as a conversation between Dan Warren (orchestra director) and Jennifer Carter (Artistic Director of the Grand River Opera). Liska Jetchick (University Choir director) stepped in to provide the chorus, and our first ever opera concert with a chorus was born.
Why Opera, we asked Jennifer Carter. Her insightful answer explains it well: “Very few experiences in our current lives are acoustic. Live classical music is one of those few remaining things that operates without microphones or by being converted to a digital signal. I’m convinced it will be a special, sought out experience very soon, as we move further and further into our all digital all the time world.
Opera is about catharsis - allowing people to feel emotions through a character‘s situation, one step removed from themselves, often feels safer than processing their own emotions from real life. But by coming together in a single space and feeling those emotions through the story, we build a sense of empathy and community, which makes us care for each other.”
The actual concert went well, with a packed house that was enthralled by the music. Pieces included the famous “Anvil Chorus” by Verdi, Delibes “Flower Duet”, and “Libiamo” from La Traviata, with a full 70-person chorus. Dan Warren reported that “The individual ensembles and soloists were extremely prepared and took it very seriously. Everyone had really bought in to the whole idea. As the rehearsals went on, we realized that this was going to be a very special night. Opera, for me is such a moving way to draw people in - theatre, Staging, acting, singing, full orchestra all at the hands of some of the greatest composers who ever lived!”
The Music Department’s conclusion? These collaborations with community organizations such as the Grand River Opera are well worth doing again.
Angelica Allen