April 25, 2013...Opera (click here) was barely out of its infancy, well, its early adolescent stage, when George Frideric Handel began its transformation into the popular entertainment it became. First performed in 1724, “Giulio Cesare” remains the most favored of the composer’s 42 operas. It bears the Handel trademarks: quite demanding vocal prowess, great emotion unique for its time, transparently clear and crisp orchestration. Handel was the consummate musician’s musician; Beethoven said of him that he was “the master of us all... the greatest composer that ever lived. I would uncover my head and kneel before his tomb. ...Go to him to learn how to achieve great effects, by such simple means.”...
One has to appreciate the sincere real history behind the operas to understand the sincere humor involved with these productions. It isn't as though they can't be appreciated anyway, but, the history of the time of Ceasar and Cleopatra and their soap opera love affair makes the performance all the more rich.
I am not crazy about Handel. There is far to much tenor and soprano in his compositions for what I like and a well balanced approach, but, they are incredible operas. No one can deny that. He set out to entertain the audiences of the upper class of his time, namely the royalty.
Handel may have had some limitations to the depth of his compositions because the performers were far younger than they are today. Caesar himself wasn't that old when he died, but was older than the average Roman citizen. Caesar was 54 years old when he died. I think that is based on current calender time.
Cleopatra was 39 when she died and gave birth to a son of Caesar. She outlived Julius Caesar by 14 years. So, she was with him in his final years when she gave him a son.
She went on to insure her place in Roman society by aligning with Mark Anthony against Octavianus. She gave Mark Anthony two children. See Romans were suppose to marry only Romans. It was a pure society genetically. Supposedly. But, the Roman heirs to the thrown had other passions. Cleo was one of them.
The Met has done an incredible job using modern day media to bring these magnificent performances to the public anywhere they can find a theater seat. I thoroughly enjoyed their performances. They are not only well done with all the talent at every turn The Met offers, but, it has refreshed an understanding of culture both today and 'the time of the opera' for me. I thank them and encourage everyone who can to attend these performances and to become a member of The Met.
Guild Membership - $75.00 (click here)
It is not inexpensive, but, it is the best investment anyone can make and they offer discounts with the membership.
I am looking forward to next season. It renews and enriches my life.
