A Bel Canto Soirée: An Intimate Evening with Night Music
It is the year 1840, and you are an honored guest at an evening of elegance and musical camaraderie in Old City’s historic Powel House. Presented by the Romantic period-instrument ensemble Night Music, A Bel Canto Soirée celebrates the beauty of operatic lyricism with a program modeled on the legendary gatherings hosted by renowned Italian expatriate singer Giuseppe De Begnis.
As you enter the foyer, peruse reproductions of De Begnis’s original scrapbook entries: autographs, witty verses, and even bespoke arias and instrumental pieces presented to the singer by such legendary composers as Bellini, Donizetti, and Rossini. Then join Night Music co-directors Heather Miller Lardin and Steven Zohn in the ballroom for an intimate pre-concert chat about the fascinating musical and social world of De Begnis’s salons. You’ll have a moment afterwards to refill your wine glass and find a seat right up front.
At the heart of the evening, the musicians of Night Music offer an exquisite program of melodious works for voice, guitar, strings, and flute – including rarely-heard gems composed for De Begnis himself. Joining the ensemble are several special guests: Philadelphia’s own celebrated soprano, Jessica Beebe, plus guitarist Adam Cockerham (NYC) and cellist Guy Fishman (Boston). You’ll greet them all over refreshments at intermission.
Before you depart, we hope you’ll add something to our guest book. Whether it’s a sketch, poem, musical phrase, or simply your John Hancock, whatever you contribute will become a part of a story to be shared at future Night Music events.
Come for the music, stay for the conversation, and leave your own mark on this unforgettable evening, designed to evoke the virtuosity and grace of a bygone era.
We can’t wait to welcome you to A Bel Canto Soirée!