This anniversary concert not only celebrated the Opera's illustrious past but also looked towards the future.Continue reading
Former students of the bel canto summer academy, including Ajgul Ahmetsina, Freddie De Tommaso, Hera Seang Park, and Paul Grant, will perform at a gala celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Georg Solti Academy at the Hungarian State Opera House on October 20.
Conducted by János Kovács, the event will feature excerpts from notable operas like Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci, Puccini’s La Bohème, and Bizet’s Carmen, with a live stream on the Stage+ platform.
Ajgul Ahmetsina made her New York debut in the title role of Carmen, while Freddie De Tommaso debuted at the Royal Opera as Cavaradossi in Tosca. Hera Seang Park performed Despina at the Paris Opera and will sing Pamina in New York, and Paul Grant starred as Figaro in The Barber of Seville in Milan last season.
Founded in 2004, by Lady Valerie Solti, Candice Wood, and Jonathan Papp, the Georg Solti Academy aims to create a unique training program in bel canto singing, reflecting Sir Georg Solti’s vision.
Over the years, nearly 400 students have completed the Academy’s courses, learning from renowned artists such as Angela Gheorghiu and José Carreras.
The academy has also conducted masterclasses and concerts globally, including venues like the Juilliard Academy and Carnegie Hall. As part of the anniversary, a masterclass led by Artistic Director Jonathan Papp will be held at the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music. The academy’s founders emphasize their collaboration with the Hungarian State Opera, marking the significant role it played in Sir Georg Solti’s early career, including his conducting in 1938.
Sir Georg Solti on Allan Warren’s photo (1975)
Solti was known for his meticulous attention to detail and electrifying performances, particularly in operas by Wagner, Verdi, and Strauss. His legacy includes numerous Grammy Awards and a lasting influence on future generations of musicians.
Via MTI; Featured Image: Facebook / Operaház