Program Type:
Arts and CultureAge Group:
Adults- Registration is required for this event.
- Registration will close on October 14, 2025 @ 2:00pm.
Program Description
Event Details
Opera Talks are back and we kick off the season with Italian La Sonnambula! We will offer in-person options at Prosser for future Opera Talks when we are able to do so.
Between 1825 and 1835 when Vincenzo Bellini (1801–1835) composed all his operas, Gaetano Donizetti (1797–1848) wrote 35, Giovanni Pacini (1796–1867) wrote 19, and Saverio Mercadante (1795–1870) wrote 19. Bellini did not come close to their prolific production with only 10. His contemporaries thought that the more they composed, the more money they would earn. Bellini preferred to write more slowly, with greater care, and to charge more per opera.
La Sonnambula, his 7th opera, premiered in Milano in 1831 and was an instant hit. It quickly made its way to London and Paris that same year. Jeffrey Engel will detail the life of Bellini up to that point and the background history of the opera, and also play some recorded excerpts.
Notes
Accommodations
The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library at least one week prior to the event.
Virtual (with Recording)
You must provide your email address at registration to receive the Zoom link. Make sure to leave the box checked that reads: "Send notifications via e-mail." Your registration confirmation notice includes the Zoom link for the program. This program may be recorded.