![]() Music allows the composer to add deeper layers to a piece that traverses the Old South, following Confederate deserter W.P. But Higdon finds sounds for all of her characters and makes it their signature the musical dimensions she adds would feel right to the millions of people who read Frazier’s original work. It is confident, at times indulgent, and it doesn’t always connect perfectly with the drama. The duo pared the tale deftly and what is lost in detail is enhanced by Higdon’s colorful score. Frazier’s 1997 novel sprawls across time and geography, and only so much of that fits on a stage. That’s a particular compliment considering it took endless compromises on the part of Higdon and librettist Gene Scheer to condense a 356-page Civil War epic into a two-act opera that’s less than three hours long. It is challenging to hear and true to its source material. “Cold Mountain,” the opera, turns out to be a special piece of American art that examines both our fortitude and failures. There was more promise surrounding the premiere: A first opera from the talented composer Jennifer Higdon, a starring role for the art form’s best-loved baritone, Nathan Gunn.Ī few notes in, it was clear the pressure brought out the best in everyone. The musical adaptation of “Cold Mountain” arrived at the Santa Fe Opera Saturday night with all of the expectations a very good idea provokes.Ĭharles Frazier’s National Book Award winner is a sweeping tale of life, love and death and opera knows exactly what to do with those things, especially death. Digital Replica Edition Home Page Close Menu
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