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Puccini

The Classical California Guide to Opera: The Essential Top 5 of Opera

The Classical California Guide to Opera: The Essential Top 5 of Opera

Explore the world of opera with this guide, featuring 5 essential pieces from Puccini, Wagner, Mozart, Rossini, Bizet, and a bonus from Verdi. Perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

09/30/2025
The ABC’s of Opera: Puccini’s “La bohème”

The ABC’s of Opera: Puccini’s “La bohème”

Explore the timeless themes of love, optimism, and dreams in Puccini's La Bohème. Learn about its history, characters, and its influence on modern productions like Rent.

09/18/2024
Puccini’s First Triumph, at San Francisco Opera

Puccini’s First Triumph, at San Francisco Opera

Despite a muddled libretto, Giacomo Puccini's opera Manon Lescaut solidified his status as Verdi's successor. Conductor Nicola Luisotti praises the music's ability to transport listeners to paradise.

11/07/2019
San Francisco Opera’s New Tosca

San Francisco Opera’s New Tosca

Soprano Carmen Giannattasio debuts in San Francisco Opera's new production of Tosca, fulfilling a long-held dream. She brings a fresh approach to the classic Puccini tale of love and revenge.

03/27/2019

RELATED TOPICS

Guide to OperaEssentialsSan Francisco OperaPop CultureThe State of the Arts

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A Deep Dive into Beethoven's Beloved Symphony No. 9

A Deep Dive into Beethoven's Beloved Symphony No. 9

Brian Lauritzen dives deep into Beethoven's timeless 9th Symphony

12/16/2025
Beethoven’s Quartet of ‘Thanksgiving’

Beethoven’s Quartet of ‘Thanksgiving’

Beethoven's String Quartet in A Minor, Op. 132, features a movement expressing gratitude for recovery from illness. It alternates between prayerful chorales and lively sections, reflecting his mortality.

11/25/2025
The Story Behind “Appalachian Spring,” the Ballet

The Story Behind “Appalachian Spring,” the Ballet

Explore the history of Appalachian Spring, a ballet commissioned by Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge, composed by Aaron Copland, and choreographed by Martha Graham.

11/22/2025
The Mystery Behind Scriabin’s Mystic Chord

The Mystery Behind Scriabin’s Mystic Chord

Explore the life of Russian composer Alexander Scriabin, his obsession with the occult, and his creation of the "mystic chord" used in his compositions.

11/17/2025
Elgar’s “Enigma Variations”

Elgar’s “Enigma Variations”

Explore the intriguing history of Edward Elgar's Enigma Variations, composed in 1898-99. Discover how this piece, inspired by Elgar's friends and personal experiences, established his fame.

11/15/2025
A Playlist to Celebrate All Things Fall

A Playlist to Celebrate All Things Fall

Explore the beauty of autumn through music with this curated list of compositions inspired by the season's warm colors, chilly weather, and melancholic mood.

11/12/2025