Chi è Don Giovanni? Meredith Students Attend Opera

On January 27, 2023, a number of Meredith students attended the opera Don Giovanni at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, accompanied by their Italian instructor Sandra Pesoli.

“Taking students of Italian to the opera is one of my goals every year since we learn about Italian music and opera in class and it just makes sense to experience it first-hand,” Pesoli explained. “The Head of the Music Department always helps us prepare, giving a talk for the Italian classes and locating tickets.”

Students really enjoy spending the evening at this formal event and practicing their Italian outside the classroom.

“It does not happen often to have these kinds of opportunities. It was a true gift and I am so thankful for the experience,” said student Alexandria Rosenzweig.

Claire Brent said of the experience: “it was beautiful hearing the Italian language being used in such an artistic way. It made me appreciate it even more.” 

Besides the Italian language and culture, students appreciated the artistic aspects of the opera. Rosenzweig found the storyline very entertaining while Brent said she “liked the climatic effect of how justice was served at the end.” 

On this matter, North Carolina Opera Director, Eric Mitchko, declared:

“Don Giovanni’s wicked charm continues to fascinate us thanks to Lorenzo da Ponte’s astute reworking of the story and Mozart’s indelible music. Every age responds to the story differently, from the enthusiastic first audiences … to those of our own day.”

Pesoli said attending opera performances “has been a wonderful opportunity for Meredith students and we hope more will join us next time. Grazie!”