“Aria Ready?” & “Intensive Rigoletto” are Spring Offerings
Posted Jan 21st, 2009 at 6:30 amJames Sokol is back to teach two great spring Opera courses at Santa Rosa Junior College! For those of you who know James and have taken his courses in the past 6 years, he needs no introduction. For those who don’t know him, James is almost impossible to describe but try: witty, erudite, opinionated, unpredictable and talented for starters. James has even been known to resort to slapstick to emphasize his incredible Passion for Opera, which is totally infectious.
His first offering, “Aria Ready?”, is one of the most popular classes in his opera series. Students love listening to and learning a beloved opera aria and then comparing how several different opera stars interpret and perform it. I’ve added an example below so see what you think and vote for your favorite.
The second class takes an in depth look at Giuiseppe Verdi’s pivotal opera, Rigoletto. “Intensive Rigoletto” is intended for those who want to get inside the workings of an opera and the composer’s mind. Rigoletto never fails to move an audience, and James will help you uncover the true magic in the work.
For more details and to register, check out the SRJC catalog under “new courses” and register soon. Hurry, for classes start in early February: https://busapp02.santarosa.edu/CommunityEducation/NewCourses.aspx
So which of these 4 tenors do you prefer singing “Nessun dorma” from Puccini’s Turandot? Jose Carreras ( 1983), Franco Corelli (Early 60′s), Mario del Monaco ( 60′s ), Luciano Pavarotti (1980). Leave your comments & vote.