Davone tines’s Haunting Performance Anchors Kaija Saariaho‘s Final Opera
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The bass-baritone Davone Tines delivers a mesmerizing performance in Kaija Saariaho’s final opera, “Only the Sound Remains,” directed by Peter Sellars at the Rose Theater of Jazz at Lincoln Center. The opera, a deeply personal and spiritual work inspired by the Japanese Noh tradition and the writings of Émile Verhaeren, explores themes of death, memory, and the search for meaning.
Tines embodies the central figure, a man confronting his own mortality, with a raw vulnerability and vocal power that captivates the audience. sellars’s staging is minimalist yet evocative, utilizing stark lighting and movement to create a sense of ritual and introspection. Saariaho’s score, known for its ethereal textures and haunting melodies, is beautifully realized by the ensemble, creating an immersive and profoundly moving experience.
“Only the Sound Remains” is not merely an opera; it’s a meditation on the human condition, a poignant farewell from a visionary composer, and a testament to the transformative power of art. Tines’s performance is the emotional core of this remarkable work, leaving a lasting impression long after the final note has faded.
Davóne Tines brings ‘Recital’ to the Berkshires, exploring Black male identity through song
Bass-baritone Davóne Tines is a performer who consistently pushes boundaries. He’s known for his striking stage presence, his powerful voice, and his willingness to tackle complex themes in his work. This month, he’s bringing his acclaimed project, “Recital,” to Western Massachusetts, with performances in Williamstown on oct.24 and Hudson on Oct. 25.
“Recital” isn’t a typical classical concert. It’s a deeply personal and moving exploration of black male identity, vulnerability, and resilience, woven together through a selection of art songs, spirituals, and original compositions. The program is a response to the realities of being a black man in America, and it’s a space for Tines to grapple with his own experiences and the experiences of others.
The music itself is diverse, ranging from the works of Samuel Barber and Margaret Bonds to arrangements of customary spirituals and pieces co-created with composer Michael Schachter. Tines’s interpretations are known for their emotional depth and technical brilliance. He doesn’t just sing the notes; he inhabits the stories within them.
“I wanted to create something that felt honest and raw,” Tines has said about “Recital.” “Something that could be a space for healing and for connection.”
The performances in Williamstown (at the Chapin Hall) and Hudson (at Basilica Hudson) are part of a larger tour, but Tines has a strong connection to the Berkshires, having been a fellow at Tanglewood Music Center.
These concerts offer a unique opportunity to witness a truly extraordinary artist at the height of his powers, and to engage with a work that is both profoundly moving and vitally critically important.
Bass-Baritone Davóne Tines Explores revolution in New Concert Program
Local audiences have two upcoming opportunities to experience bass-baritone Davóne Tines’ newest concert program,titled “What is your hand in this?” performed with the seven-piece early music group Ruckus. Concerts are at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct.24, at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Mass., and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Hudson Hall in Hudson.
Besides his expressive voice and four-octave range, Tines is also recognized for creating thoughtful and provocative programs that juxtapose music from various centuries, traditions and styles in service of a concept or idea. Honoring the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, “What is your hand in this?” is about revolution.
The roughly 80-minute program includes a Handel aria from the “messiah” (“Why do the nations so furiously rage?”), Clifford Otis song “This Bitter Earth,” the early American hymn “Jesus Lover of My Soul” and Julius Eastman’s “Buddha,” a one-page graphic score that’s been described as “painful meditation.” There’s also “Steps to Compassion,” a world premiere by Doug Balliett, a member of Ruckus who also did some song arrangements.
more than a showcase of talent and style, the concert is described in some promotional material as “a biting exploration of America’s revolutionary music.”
“I’m very reticent to simply put on a performance. I’m always actively trying to invite the audience to reflect on themselves and for us to have an actual communal experience,” says Tines.
The local performances are considered “previews” to be followed by appearances at numerous major venues across the country, including Carnegie Hall, during the first months of the country’s celebration of “America250.”
Growing up the son of a church musician in a small Virginia town, Tines learned some things about how music works from his dad, who was a music minister.
Opera Saratoga to present “La Bohème” in December Performance
Opera Saratoga is bringing a touch of springtime to the winter season with a performance of Giacomo Puccini’s beloved opera, “La bohème,” on Friday, December 5th at 7:00 p.m. This mid-year outing from the company, affectionately known as “the home team” by local opera enthusiasts, offers a chance to enjoy world-class opera during the holiday season. https://www.operasaratoga.org/
Featuring Rising and Established talent
The performance will star soprano Kayla Rae Stein as Mimi, a role she is well-suited for after being recognized as one of the elite Renée Fleming Artists at the Aspen Music Festival this past summer. https://www.aspenmusic.org/artists/kayla-rae-stein/ Other soloists boast performance experience at prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Opera and the Salzburg Festival. The production will also showcase talent from the Skidmore College music program and the locally-based Excelsior Vocal Ensemble, enriching the performance with local artistry.
A Concert Performance with Staging Elements
This rendition of “la Bohème” will be presented as a concert performance, accompanied by pianist Adam Nielsen. Mary Birnbaum, Opera Saratoga’s general and artistic director, will partially stage the performance, adding visual elements to enhance the storytelling.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the December 5th performance range from $27.50 to $127.50 and are available for purchase through the Opera Saratoga website: https://www.operasaratoga.org/
About opera saratoga
Opera Saratoga is a regional opera company dedicated to presenting innovative and engaging operatic experiences. The company is known for its summer festival and commitment to developing emerging artists. https://www.operasaratoga.org/about/
Key Takeaways:
* What: Opera Saratoga’s performance of Puccini’s “La Bohème”
* when: Friday, December 5th, 7:00 p.m.
* Where: Details available on the opera Saratoga website.
* Tickets: $27.50 – $127.50, available at https://www.operasaratoga.org/
* Featured Artist: Kayla Rae Stein as Mimi
This December performance offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the magic of opera and support a vibrant local arts association. Opera Saratoga continues to enrich the cultural landscape of the region, and this performance promises to be a highlight of the holiday season.