Part One: Charlotte Symphony's Classical Idol. The concept behind American Idol is not new. We have always been fascinated by that special talent who comes along and inspires us with their vision and craft. But most American Idol winners are everyday folks with a gift. Classical musicians are highly trained, dedicated and persistent artists who often go unnoticed in the communities they serve with their music. Not in Charlotte. Last year Classical Idol was hatched. It's a friendly competition to raise funds for the Symphony but it's also a way to raise awareness of these incredibly talented musicians in our midst. With offerings from Celtic fiddle to an elementary school choir, Classical Idol has music for everyone.
Guests
Jackie Slaugenhaupt - Chair, Classical Idol
Catherine McDermott - Host Committee and past Chair, Classical Idol
Alan Black - Principal Cellist, Charlotte Symphony. Idol Contestant
- Classical Idol is Friday, Apr. 12 at 7:30pm at Spirit Square's McGlohon Theater, 345 N. College St., in Uptown Charlotte with a pre-concert reception beginning at 6:30 p.m
- Charlotte Symphony Guild
Part Two: Opera Carolina's The Pearl Fishers. George Bizet's most famous opera and still a favorite today is Carmen, but his first real success came with The Pearl Fishers. When The Pearl Fishers opens next week at Opera Carolina, it will include technological enhancements that Bizet would not have been able to imagine in his era, but these additions are part of the effort that the Opera is making to retain and grow their audiences and the appreciation for this form of art. We'll meet some of the stars of this new production and find out what form these enhancements will take, and about what makes this show a must-see for opera audiences.
Guests
Janinah Burnett - Metropolitan Opera Soprano who plays "Leila" in The Pearl Fishers
Chad Johnson - Tenor who plays "Nadir" in The Pearl Fishers
James Meena - General Director and Principal Conductor of Opera Carolina
- Opera Carolina The Pearl Fishers performances will be April 13, 18 and 21 at the Belk Theater. Details.