A Coffin in Egypt
Frederica von Stade (mezzo-soprano)
Continuing its tradition of commissioning new operas, the Houston Grand Opera gives the world premiere recording of A Coffin in Egypt by Ricky Ian Gordon. Based on Texan playwright Horton Foote's single-character play, A Coffin in Egypt possesses all of the depth and lyricism of grand opera. The libretto by Leonard Foglia and music by Ricky Ian Gordon offer the essence of opera's disarming intimacy. Set in Egypt, Texas, the triple-entendre title is of symbolic significance to believers and Bible scholars, with the final reference to a literal journey taken by Myrtle, the 90-year-old character in the opera. The emotional journey of this opera takes us through our common experiences of joy, pain and the accepting peace of forgiveness. The incomparable Frederica von Stade was lured out of retirement to take on the leading tour-de-force role.
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Track Listing
| Title | Composer | Performer |
|---|---|---|
| A Coffin in Egypt | Ricky Ian Gordon | Frederica von Stade; David Matranga; Carolyn Johnson; Cecilia Duarte; Adam Noble; gospel quartet and instrumental ensemble of the Houston Grand Opera; Timothy Myers, conductor |
Reviews
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NEW MUSIC BOx 2014 STAFF PICK - "Gordon's music tells the story economically and colorfully, with dashes of melody that evoke the beauty of the Texas prairies and the optimism Myrtle yearns to find within herself."
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