Another word today about opera. Over the centuries, opera has often been criticized, and justly, for any number of reasons: silly or unrealistic plots, bad acting, extravagant productions, outrageous ticket prices and an air of social exclusivity, and characters who should be at least a little out of breath on account of their dying of consumption or having just been stabbed in the heart but who nonetheless manage to sing lengthy arias at the top of their lungs.
But despite these problems, opera has never lost its popularity. Why? Two reasons. First, because the power and possibilities of music are unlimited. Music can elevate even the most banal words, and transform – or transcend – even the most ridiculous situations. And second, because the human voice has the power to touch our hearts in ways nothing else quite can. Audiences love drama and spectacle, and those factors have always played a big role in opera’s appeal. But the essence of opera, the unchanging essence of opera, is wonderful singers singing great music.
A Minute with Miles – a production of South Carolina ETV Radio, made possible by the J.M. Smith Corporation.
