I’ve been immersed in Verdi.  Our next faculty field trip is scheduled for tomorrow.  Three of us are going to see the Pittsburgh Opera production of Verdi’s Aida.  It’s more than three hours long.  We’ll be sitting in peanut heaven.  And… we’ll be competing against Steelers’ traffic. I can’t wait!

Please realize there’s no sarcasm intended in the last statement.  I truly can’t wait! The only music I’ve listened to in the last two weeks has been Aida.  On my way to work, cleaning the house, mowing the grass, getting dressed. I have no idea what the libretto is actually saying.  I can tell by the music that it doesn’t end well.  Today, finally, I had he opportunity to read the synopsis.  I love it!  I wish I spoke (sang) Italian so that I could truly appreciate the musical genius that is Verdi.

I almost regret that I have to see it, because I know that the instant the ensemble sings, “Emancipa!” or, “Radames! Radames!  Radames!” those moments will be over and I’ll have only memories.

So… anxiously awaiting (and simultaneously lamenting) tomorrow’s performance.