Lyric Music & More: November 10

On this day in 1969, one of the most influential children’s programs of all time made its television debut. For anyone who has watched Sesame Street, as a child or adult, it’s clear that music is both a powerful tool for learning and a universal source of joy and inspiration.

That’s certainly true for Ryan Opera Center alumna J’Nai Bridges, pictured above, which led her to choose the song “Sing” by Joe Raposo, written for Sesame Street, in the For the Love of Lyric virtual concert. Joining the magnificent mezzo-soprano are young members of the immensely talented Chicago Children’s Choir, making this segment one of the most heartwarming moments of the event. Watch the video now and feel inspired for the next generation of singers.

Sing with J'Nai

Plus, see how operas and musicals are similar and also different, get an update on Lyric’s seating project, and watch new episodes of Breaking Down the Score and Master Classes with Sir Andrew Davis.

The many similarities and differences

The worlds of opera and musical theater are often discussed as if they are entirely unique art forms, but are they really that different? See how opera influenced the development of musical theater and how the style evolved in this edition of Opera 101.

Learn something new

Something to look forward to

The process of replacing seats as part of our Patron Accessibility Initiative has been long, complicated and full of unexpected roadblocks, but progress is being made every day. Get the latest on the renovations and see what the Lyric Opera House looks like without seats!

Take a seat

Digging into a complicated relationship

On December 8 at 6pm, join Lyric Opera of Chicago, WFMT and WTTW for a free virtual panel discussion focusing on the evolving relationship between the Chicago Police Department (CPD) and Chicago's Black community. The panel is inspired by the Lyric premiere of the opera Blue and WTTW’s FIRSTHAND: Gun Violence digital series.

Register

Episode 2 with Maria Novella Malfatti and David Weigel

Lyric takes you behind the scenes as Music Director Sir Andrew Davis leads a series of one-on-one master classes focusing on excerpts from The Marriage of Figaro. In this episode he works with soprano Maria Novella Malfatti, a first-year ensemble member of the Ryan Opera Center, on the role of Susanna and bass-baritone David Weigel, a third-year ensemble member, on the role of Figaro.

Part 6: Scena e Romanza Odabella

Act One begins with pure Italian Romanticism as Odabella looks to the moonlit sky and dreams of her late father and lost love, Foresto. Hear how five musicians set the scene for this magical bel canto moment and all the hope Verdi instills in a single trill.

Tune in each week and be the first to see new episodes by subscribing to Lyric's channel on YouTube.

Music became a healer for me. And I learned to listen to it with all my being.

Eric Clapton