Inside the Music
Norma

Although Norma was received coolly by much of the audience at its premiere, the opera has since become a cornerstone of the repertoire. Vincenzo Bellini placed the title role, one of the most demanding and virtuosic in bel canto, at the heart of his score – a score which, incidentally, he continued to work on and polish until the very morning of the premiere. The result is an undisputed masterpiece, full of iconic arias and duets as well as grandiose choruses and ensembles that were admired by Donizetti, Wagner and many others after them.

Musician, journalist and musicologist Chantal Cazaux will share with you the ins and outs of Norma, accompanying her accessible analysis with excerpts performed live on the piano. Her introduction will be followed by a reception.