September News
Opera Prelude September News 2025
September started with a rather brilliant masterclass with the international tenor sensation that is David Butt Phillips at the Garrison Chapel. Our young artists Matthew Curtis (tenor), Sam Young (baritone) and Jacob Bettinelli (baritone) all benefitted from his insightful coaching. We were delighted to be joined once again by the fantastic pianist Francesca Lauri. We are very grateful to David for joining us and sharing his expertise!
We also had the first of our OperaBites concert at St. Mary’s Church in Barnes. We were joined by the brilliant soprano Eyra Norman and pianist Adrian Salinero, who together performed a programme of Bellini, Strauss, Schubert and more. The audience particularly enjoyed the chance to engage directly with Eyra in a thoughtful Q&A about her singing and repertoire — a truly lovely evening.
Later in the month, Georgie Malcolm (soprano) returned with Adrian Salinero for a fascinating lecture–recital titled “Duelling Divas: Soprano Rivalries Through the Ages.” Exploring how iconic rivalries — from Cuzzoni and Bordoni to Callas and Tebaldi — shaped operatic repertoire and public perception, the programme featured Handel, Puccini, Gounod and others. We were thrilled to present this engaging event in both London (24th Sept) and Henley (26th Sept).
September concluded with another appearance by Eyra Norman, this time joined by pianist Thomas Ang, for A Night at the Opera at the International Music Festival in Tunbridge Wells. It was wonderful to share their artistry with a brand-new audience.
Young Artist Highlights
Our Young Artists were busy beyond Opera Prelude as well:
Sam Young (baritone) performed at the Queen’s House, Greenwich as part of DEBUT’s Secret Concert series, appearing alongside a diverse group of musicians in a programme of opera and song. He also sang in the chorus for ENO’s production of La Cenerentola — a busy and exciting month for Sam!
Natasha Agarwal began touring with English Touring Opera, performing in the ensemble and covering Gianetta in Donizetti’s The Elixir of Love and Lucia in Britten’s The Rape of Lucretia. She is also performing the role of Alex in Little Terror, a new opera for children, families and SEND audiences by Noah Mosley and Maisie Newman. Great work, Natasha!