Christopher Hahn, general director of Pittsburgh Opera, is always listening for opportunities to hear excellent vocal performances. He shares with TABLE readers some highlights of his 2023 concert agenda.
I am already looking forward to a multitude of concerts and performances in the second half of 2023. My list includes some Pittsburgh Opera events, of course, as well as other concerts. While some of my favorite local organizations, such as Resonance Works and Chatham Baroque, have not publicly announced their upcoming seasons yet, here is my shortlist based on what’s already been announced.
Pittsburgh Opera Allegheny County Summer Concert Series
South Park, June 2
We are honored to once again kick off the Summer Concert Series with this free open-air celebration full of songs and music for all ages.
Taylor Swift
Acrisure Stadium, June 16-17
She’s an icon, as the saying goes. Anyone whose ticket presale caused enough carnage to warrant a Congressional investigation is by definition a must-see.
Pittsburgh Opera Rising Stars Concert
Bitz Opera Factory, September 23
Our first official concert of the 2023-24 season is a chance for the community to hear and meet our stellar resident artists. As always, it’s free and open to the public, and the audience gets to choose the final encore.
The Barber of Seville
Benedum Center, October 14
The perfect introduction to opera! Fun, light-hearted, full of physical comedy and enchanting melodies. You’ll recognize the music from Bugs Bunny and countless other appearances in pop culture.
The Flying Dutchman
Benedum Center, November 11
A sweeping Wagner epic, this is the first time we’ll have performed this opera in 20 years.
Brahms’ Requiem
Heinz Hall, December 1
I’m very much looking forward to hearing the talented soprano Elena Villalón perform with the PSO. She was a Grand Finals winner of the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition.
Handel’s Messiah
Heinz Hall, December 2
No holiday season is complete without the mother of all choral pieces featuring the wonderful musicians of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the stellar Mendelssohn Choir.
Story by Christopher Hahn
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