A recent performance of Benjamin Britten’s opera The Rape of Lucretia made me think about the dualities of masculine and feminine and the role of contrast in creating and performing art. Artists learn to understand and use the duality of opposites in their work.
Artists have unique sets of skills learned through the materials, elements, structures, and rules of their art forms. They know, however, that their greatest art is created when they take those basic techniques and break them apart just enough to take them to the edge and create something innovative and new. It requires a thorough knowledge of the artistic process and the willingness to step out of their comfort zones.
Artists of all kinds experience an incredible feeling of anticipation and hope as they begin a new work of art. Each new beginning is much like the freshness of springtime—a chance to start again. The feeling of anticipation and starting anew gives artists a sense of optimism and hope. The feeling comes from something new being born—of something to come.
Musical theater is a powerful and popular form of stage performance. Last week I attended performances with music by Stephen Sondheim—a full musical production and an afternoon of his songs from various musical theater works. Many of us experience an emotional reaction to the music created by Sondheim. There’s a fundamental, inspiring humanness in his work.
An orchestra concert that includes Mahler’s Fourth Symphony is especially appealing, and the recent pre-concert rehearsal I observed brought me back to the symphony’s enjoyable, tuneful nature.
One of the most important aspects of artistic expression is passion. When you consider passion from an artist’s point of view, it’s important to note the profound experience that takes place in the process of creating and performing art.
The dance concert I attended last week was wonderful. It was exhilarating to see and feel the enthusiasm of the performers. One of the pieces on the program was particularly engaging.
Artists spend hours in openness. They free their minds from being in complete control. While it can feel risky, openness gives them a chance to experience change and break down the barriers that can build up from everyday living.
I attended a semi-staged production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute last week. What a delight! It’s no wonder that this opera has captivated audiences for more than 200 years.
The display of works in the recent exhibit of John Singer Sargent watercolors at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston was a delight to the eye.