A report Wednesday (4/22) on the classical-music news site MusicCriticism.com states, “The summer brings spectacular news for opera-lovers all over the world: the Royal Opera House and the BBC announced a partnership which brings the work of the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet to millions of viewers and listeners. Covent Garden productions will be available across many different digital platforms including radio, television, CDs, DVDs, online and outdoor screens. For the first time, the Royal Opera programmes broadcast on the BBC will also be available on the BBC iPlayer. The two-season commitment with the BBC brings eight operas and/or ballets from the RHO to be broadcast on BBC TWO and BBC FOUR. … The joint venture of BBC and RHO goes beyond the simple diffusion of music. Peter Maniura, Head of BBC Classical Music TV, talks of ‘harnessing the passion and expertise of the Royal Opera House and its artists.’ This effort yields a tantalising result: Antonio Pappano, Music Director of the Royal Opera, will present a three-part series, Viva Opera Italia, charting the history of Italian opera from Monteverdi to Puccini.”
Posted April 23, 2009
