An Introduction to The Flying Dutchman

 

Written by Thomson Smillie

Narrated by David Timson

 

Contains 1 CD +  8 page booklet. A narrated introduction to the opera with history, the plot, and the main themes.

 

OPERA EXPLAINED

An entertaining but informative series introducing the major operas of the repertoire, with historical background, an explanation of the plot and a presentation of the main arias and themes. Opera Explained is a unique idea. Nothing of its kind exists. An ideal introduction to individual operas either to prepare for the full Naxos recording, or a visit to the opera house.

 

THE FLYING DUTCHMAN

The Flying  Dutchman is the perfect opera with which to approach the operatic mountain that is Richard Wagner, as the score has many pre-echoes of Wagner’s later great music dramas. The great story of the Dutch captain doomed to sail forever unless redeemed through love is combined with striking music which sweeps from the gales in the overture to the haunting final  theme of redemption through love.

 

DAVID TIMSON

David Timson studied acting and singing at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He has performed in modern and classic plays through the UK and abroad, including Wild Honey for Alan Ayckbourn, Hamlet, The Man of Mode and The Seagull. Among his many TV appearances have been roles in Nelson’s Column and Swallows and Amazons. or Naxos AudioBooks he has recorded to date four volumes of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, and directed Twelfth Night as well as playing Feste. He is also the narrator in the Naxos recording of Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale.

 

 

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