Opera is the force-multiplier of the dramatic arts. It needs voices, actors, musicians, costumers, tech experts, scenic talents, directors–and of course, composers–to produce a whole greater than the parts. How does it all synthesize? Luckily, we can rely on Troy Cook to expose the muscle behind the magic. This internationally acclaimed baritone, a Hartt School professor, will reveal how composers use harmony, melody, orchestration, and dramatic structure to heighten emotion. He’ll spotlight the crucial collaboration of all players–in the pit, on- and backstage. Hartt students will sing musical excerpts, populating our program with outsize operatic characters. By the time Troy Cook exits, you’ll know how opera moves audiences to weep, roar and riot. Whether you're an opera lover or a curious newcomer, you'll gain a deeper appreciation not only of its potent magic, but also of its demanding logistics.
Troy Cook is a baritone who has enjoyed an international career spanning more than three decades, appearing with leading companies including The Metropolitan Opera, the Royal Opera House Covent Garden, San Francisco Opera, and Opera Philadelphia. Equally at home in traditional repertoire and contemporary works, he has created roles in world premieres and earned praise for performances noted for their vocal beauty, dramatic commitment, and technical excellence. In addition to his performing career, Cook serves on the voice faculty of The Hartt School at the University of Hartford, where he mentors the next generation of singers.
Lecture: Thursday, Oct. 22 | 3:30 p.m.–5 p.m. | Berkman Recital Hall/Fuller Music Center | $20 (lecture only)
Performance: The Hartt School Opera Gala—Sunday, Nov. 15, 2 p.m.–4 p.m. | Roberts Foundation Theater/Handel Performing Arts Center | $30 (lecture + performance)
Made possible in part by the generosity of the Richard P. Garmany Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. Brought to you by the Presidents' College, where we connect the curious through lifelong learning.
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