Classical Opera Apollo et Hyacinthus
The Orchestra of Classical Opera
Ian Page conductor
Melia: Martene Grimson soprano*
Apollo: Lawrence Zazzo countertenor
Oebalus: Andrew Kennedy tenor
Hyacinthus: Katherine Watson soprano
Zephyrus: Andrew Radley countertenor
*Change of performer (see below)
Mozart
Symphony No 1 in E flat K16
3 Concert Arias:
Va, dal furor portata
Per pietà, bell’idol mio
Oh, temerario Arbace … Per quel paterno amplesso
Apollo et Hyacinthus
The god Apollo has descended to earth and proposed marriage to Melia, daughter of King Oebalus of Laconia. But when Apollo goes to play discus with Melia’s brother Hyacinthus and his friend Zephyrus, a tragic incident occurs, after which nothing can be the same …
“After such fearful portents, the sweet pledge of love unites us. After inexorable fate has played his hand, the longed for marriage torches will crown us and gladden your hearts.”
‘A pearl beyond price … a work of staggering beauty.’
The Independent
Classical Opera celebrates the launch of its major new recording cycle of Mozart’s operas with a concert performance of his remarkable first opera. Apollo et Hyacinthus was written in 1767, when the composer was only eleven years old, and yet the music is astonishingly accomplished and beautiful.
Classical Opera’s outstanding cast comprises some of the world’s leading young Mozart singers, including American countertenor Lawrence Zazzo and British tenor Andrew Kennedy, with Ian Page conducting the company’s acclaimed period-instrument orchestra.
‘Ian Page conducted with panache in music that was lyrical, stylish and unbelievably mature for an 11-year-old composer to have written.’ Musical Opinion on Classical Opera’s 2006 Apollo et Hyacinthus tour to St George’s Bristol
‘Exhilarating phrasing … stunning performances.’ The Independent on Sunday on Classical Opera’s 2006 Apollo et Hyacinthus tour to St George’s Bristol
Classical Opera’s new recording of Apollo et Hyacinthus is released 2012 on the award-winning Linn Records label.
Hear for yourself when Classical Opera appear on BBC Radio 3′s In Tune on Tues 8 May… bbc.co.uk/radio3
To watch exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of Classical Opera’s rehearsal and recording sessions for their upcoming ‘Apollo et Hyacinthus’ release, interviews with the cast and historical / performance insight with Ian Page click here.
*Klara Ek is unfortunately indisposed and unable to sing this evening. We are very grateful to Martene Grimson for replacing her in the role of Melia at short notice.
Promoted by St George’s Bristol
in collaboration with Classical Opera.