May News
This month, we were treated to four wonderful events across London and Henley.
The month began with the second performance of Operatic Love: Mozart to Bizet by soprano Eyra Norman and pianist Abhisri Chaudhury. This time set in a private home in Chelsea, the duo delivered a beautifully balanced and heartfelt programme, serenading us with operatic love songs spanning centuries. Our thanks to Eyra, Abhisri, and our generous Chelsea hosts for such a memorable morning of music.
Next, we caught Ellen Pearson in Henley for her imaginative lecture-recital The Eternal War Between Soprano and Mezzo-Soprano, accompanied by Georgie Ireland. Ellen explored a selection of arias from roles long contested between the two voice types. It was a clever concept, presented with flair and commitment by both performers. We wish Ellen the very best as she joins the Jette Parker Young Artists Programme at the Royal Opera House later this year—what a privilege to have her perform with us at this stage in her career.
Later in May, we hosted an operatic garden gala, A Golden Evening of Opera, featuring Eyra Norman, Alexandra Meier, Alex Haigh, Stephen Whitford, and George Ireland. Set beside the river just outside Henley, this special concert also celebrated the Golden Wedding Anniversary of dear Opera Prelude friends who kindly hosted the event. The atmosphere was joyful, the music glorious, and the evening left everyone glowing.
A wonderful Golden Anniversary celebration with Opera Prelude young artists
Our final major event of the month was a public masterclass at the Garrison Chapel with internationally renowned mezzo-soprano Dame Sarah Connolly. It was an extraordinary opportunity for our Young Artists Ellen Pearson, mezzo soprano, Alexandra Meier, mezzo soprano and Ross Cumming, baritone to learn from one of the greats of British opera, and we are deeply grateful to Dame Sarah for her generosity and insight.
Dame Sarah Connolly and Opera Prelude young artists
Success for Our Young Artists
Beyond our own stages, Opera Prelude Young Artists and alumni have been busy:
Jack Holton, baritone, covered the role of Count Almaviva in Welsh National Opera’s touring Le nozze di Figaro.
Phoebe Smith, soprano, appeared as Milly in English Touring Opera’s The Wellies at the Royal Opera House’s Family Sunday Series on May 18.
Catherine Hooper, soprano and OP alumna, sang Musetta in Devon Opera’s La bohème, with current Young Artist Sam Young as Marcello.
We’re proud of the talent and dedication of our community and look forward to what June brings!
