I may be biting off more than I can chew

but I just downloaded another library book for the Kindle that I happened upon by accident, but which sounded intriguing. It's called The Metropolis Case, by Matthew Galloway. It takes place in America and in Europe, over three centuries, with four main characters united by Wagner's opera Tristan and Isolde.

I know little of opera (although I knew someone in the opera programme at the University of Kentucky, and between him and another friend with good taste, I have been exposed to some). I am, of course, familiar with Wagner, although I have never heard this particular opera, which is perhaps sad, as of course I've read versions of the original tale. But apparently it's not a requirement to enjoy the book, and it does make me think I should broaden my horizons and see if I can find some decent clips on YouTube of performances.

They have a point

We do somewhat odd things online we would never do in person.



Thanks to YKWIA for showing it to me today.

'Lucia di Lammermoor' Production Honors Late Professor

The University of Kentucky Opera Theatre presents the powerful opera 'Lucia di Lammermoor' in celebration of the illustrious career of the late Gail Robinson. Robinson, a noted singer at the Metropolitan Opera and professor of voice at UK School of Music, was best known for her portrayal of the title role in 'Lucia.' This Donizetti masterpiece is a classical example of the bel canto style of opera. The UK Opera Theatre will present the fully staged opera at 7:30 p.m. March 6, 7, 13 and 14, at the Lexington Opera House.

Music is by the Lexington Symphony Orchestra and tickets are reasonably priced from $12-$34. The Opera House has gone through a recent remodelling, including more comfortable and roomier seating. Information on the opera and obtaining tickets can be found at the link at the top of this post.

Here's another one, and then I must head to bed.

Your Score: IDI-Donna Elvira

You scored 50%Selflessness, 30 % Aggressiveness, 45 % Head/Heart!

Self(I)sh, (D)emure and (I)ntelligent you are Donna Elvira, Don Giovanni's sassy noble woman scorned. Perhaps one of Mozart's most tenacious heroines, you are an unlikely combination of class, composure and self-preservation. You tend to face every situation with a graceful demeanor meaning that although from time to time you may get mistreaten, you are never anybody's fool.

Link: The Which Operatic Heroine are You Test written by amneris59 on OkCupid Free Online Dating, home of the The Dating Persona Test

I'll try to actually write about my week tomorrow.

Another famous non-smoker felled by lung cancer

Opera star Beverly Sills dies of cancer

I knew she was ailing, but checked the news tonight to find she'd died. She popularised opera with her upbeat personality.

Even as a seven-year-old she had chops...



Here is Beverly Sills singing Mozart's 'Ah vous dirai-je, maman' (or as some would recognise it, 'Twinkle, twinkle, little star'):



and her final performance: