I know it's good, but...
Ah, insomnia. So, I am watching a PBS special. It's Tosca at the Met (2009). High definition really brings out the sets (amazing work, really). But, (and this is a big one), I really do not enjoy most opera. Operatic coloratura just drives me nuts. It's not just the classic soprano version, all ranges bother me. Of course Puccini has some of it. Rossini is just murderous. Also, the approach to tone is also at times a bit rough. I actually don't like a lot of vibrato in voice as well.
The thing about it is I understand the insane skill required to perform at that level and the texts and orchestration is often really great, but when they go for the higher notes, a large part of my brain just goes "Ahhhhhh, shut up, shut up, shut up, ouch." It is funny when the simplest text sounds all amazing. "I am walking to store to get some bread" sounds pretty good in Italian.
So, in certain ways, I am not cultured. Sad really. I know some think it is an acquired taste, but like brussel sprouts, I just can't handle it.
The thing about it is I understand the insane skill required to perform at that level and the texts and orchestration is often really great, but when they go for the higher notes, a large part of my brain just goes "Ahhhhhh, shut up, shut up, shut up, ouch." It is funny when the simplest text sounds all amazing. "I am walking to store to get some bread" sounds pretty good in Italian.
So, in certain ways, I am not cultured. Sad really. I know some think it is an acquired taste, but like brussel sprouts, I just can't handle it.