MARLBORO — On Oct. 7, musicians performing an “Afternoon at the Opera” graced the sanctuary of First Baptist Church in an early-20th-century Estey organ and mezzo-soprano concert that was absolutely heaven on earth!
Local virtuosi Clark Anderson and Jenna Rae filled the air with Verdi, Wagner, Handel, Massenet, and Mozart. All stops sounded in the “March” from Aida as well as Wagner's “Ride of the Valkyries.”
The opening waltzes from Richard Strauss set the tone, and even Johann Strauss II and Jacques Offenbach had their turn with Die Fledermaus, the Can-can, and The Tales of Hoffmann. It was a rich mix and a glorious program.
The passionate songs and the romantic solo stops were especially memorable. “L'amour” from Bizet's Carmen was the perfect encore to an atmosphere of such love and good will.
Proceeds benefited the Estey Organ Museum, and on that organization's behalf we share great thanks for all those who contributed.
Brattleboro is fortunate to have this magnificent musical instrument and to have such accomplished good neighbors to bring it alive. Let's hope the community can work together to assure its availability, in good condition, for all time.
Thank you, Clark Anderson and Jenna Rae, for a perfectly wonderful afternoon.