When we think of modern opera, often names such as Puccini, Wagner and Mozart come to mind. But opera, the way we know it, can trace its lineage back to 17th century Italian composer Claudio Monteverdi.
Among Monteverdi's most famous works are L'Orfeo and the Florentine Opera's newest production, The Coronation of Poppea. The opera will be at Vogel Hall this weekend and next.
We spent some time at the Florentine Opera’s rehearsal space in Riverwest to learn more and hear some music. We spoke with Poppea's stage director Robin Guarino, harpsichordist and conductor Jory Vinikour, and Grammy-award winning tenor Karim Sulayman, who will sing the role of Emperor Nero.