Opera Prelude: Hidden Figures: The Famous and Forgotten of Operatic History

Rosemary Clifford (mezzo-soprano), Natalie Burch on piano

As an art form, opera stands entirely alone; a unique blend of music, drama, poetry and emotion, it is as addictive, glamorous and fascinating now as it was at its inception. With a lifespan of over 500 years and counting, part of the lure of opera is its ability to reinvent itself, and, naturally, the musical geniuses it has captivated along the way. These geniuses are not always, however, those whom posterity will celebrate! All too often, the darlings of musical society are eclipsed posthumously by those who, whilst perhaps obscure in life, are far better-known to us today. Who were these forgotten masters, and what have we lost with them? Join Rosemary Clifford for a dive back into history to discover the successes and failures, the trailblazers and those who went adrift, and attempt to answer the question: what will history make of us?

Opera Prelude is a small charity supporting young professional opera singers who give lecture recitals in London. These friendly and inclusive events will introduce you to the international opera singers of tomorrow by way of recitals, concerts and masterclasses.