A Note on Opera: Hector Berlioz’s “La Damnation de Faust“

Join Goethe-Zentrum Atlanta for our latest lecture in our “A Note on Opera” series as they look at Hector Berlioz’s “La Damnation de Faust.”
Neval’s 1828 translation into French of Goethe’s “Faust“ triggered Hector Berlioz to compose his 1846 adaptation. The composer described it as a “dramatic legend,” a work that isn’t a choral symphony but not quite a traditional opera, either; it often has been called “an opera of the mind.” But with modern technology, however. it more and more is presented as a comprehensive, immensely satisfying stage work. “La Damnation de Faust” has all the grand effects and intimate moments characteristic of “French Grand Opera,” namely large choruses, ballet, star turns for the principal singers, and a mezzo-soprano rather than a soprano in the lead female role. Its symphonic excerpts are regularly included on orchestra programs and will probably be recognizable.

Course to be taught in English by David Kerr. No pre-existing knowledge of music required.