Find out how Bel Canto composers Rossini, Donizetti and Bellini shaped the way forward for music throughout Europe in the 19th Century, their operas carving a solid place in the opera houses around the world today.
A fascinating and intriguing talk given by former opera singer Helen Astrid. The use of recorded music and visual aids are interspersed with discussion and personal anecdotes enabling you to develop your understanding and appreciation of this exquisite art form.
After graduating from the Royal Academy of Music, Helen performed as a soprano soloist at most of the major venues in the UK including English National Opera, Linbury Theatre Royal Opera House, Garsington Opera Festival and Chelsea Opera Group at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, South Bank.
She regularly appears on television and radio including BBC World News, The Paul O’Grady Show and has given a Ted Talk Tell me the truth about Opera which has been viewed by 1000s. She lectures on the history of opera for Cambridge University, Marlborough College, Imperial College, Benslow Music and the Bishopsgate Institute and Opera Live at Home and for various societies and groups around the UK. To share the beauty of opera and to spread the glory of this magnificent art form is her absolute joy.