Latest releases reviewed

GERALD BARRY: THE BITTER TEARS OF PETRA VON KANT
Soloists: Rayanne Dupuis, Mary Plazas, Stephanie Marshall, Deirdre Cooling- Nolan, Sylvia O Brien. RTE National Symphony Orchestra. Conductor: Gerhard Markson. RTECD 261
*****

A new opera by an Irish composer is a great event. The subject matter of this work is radical, exploring the power struggles arising from relationships and love affairs between women. Using Rainer Werner Fassbinder's play as the libretto, the composer has set the text to music of assured power, with chunks of glittering sound setting the context for what is being enacted on stage. Traditional lovers of melody will probably not like this music, but within its context it is approachable, supporting and illuminating the jagged emotions of the protagonists. This work of power and originality is given here in a fine performance by conductor, singers and orchestra. That it should come from the pen of an Irish composer is a matter of pride. Bravo. www.rte.ie

Colman Morrissey