Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Opera Going & Music Appreciation


Just wanted to do a quick share of The Valkyrie performance that we attended a few weeks ago. No kiddies this night.  My husband and I made a date night out of it and we have seen a lot of music performance between the two of us. I can truly say that our lives have been enriched by seeing The Valkyrie opera (Part of Wagner's Ring Cycle). This really was a once in a lifetime opportunity and when we saw the announcement we booked our seats immediately. Not many cities in the world host this huge operatic fete which runs over 4 hours long. The Valkyrie is not one of those events limited to just the opera going crowd. In fact, though we enjoy many musical events, we are not season ticket holders of the opera in our city. This piece is loved and admired for it's emotions (I cried), huge sound (including a thunder instrument), and perhaps most notably the piece The Ride of the Valkyries is performed at the beginning of Act III. (Think Apocalypse Now the movie). No pics were allowed inside but we did snap a few random ones including our yummy dinner.


Pre-ordered the lamb and chicken caesar so our dinner was waiting for us after the second intermission.

So what's this post about? You becoming an avid opera fan? No need to write a big donation check. I am simply saying just go to musical performances when they come to town. It's worth the time and money. People don't get dressed up anymore and I hate that. Get dressed up, people, go out and enjoy the musical things in life. You will undoubtedly feel better all around.

Art and Music are the first on the chopping block at schools as they are forced to cut budgets. How are we supposed to instill such important elements, that have proven mental and health benefits, into our children without exposing them to different types of music? If your school doesn't have a program the job is up to you. Here is some help...

A few tips for family musical enjoyment:
The Valkyrie venue

  • Weekends are usually chock full of events in areas all over the world. 
  • Musical performances from local theater groups and coffee shop ensembles to big budget presentations are available for adults and children alike to enjoy. 
  • They are not usually outrageously priced and you can oftentimes even find free events. 
  • Stay on budget by skimping on venue seats because it's hearing the music that's important. 
  • Save that extra cash from your budget seats to spend on dinner or collectibles from the event. 

 REMEMBER: Your children will feel lucky just being there and they should be. Any experience that they have enriches them so again, just go and enjoy the music. 

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