Conductor Julius Rudel, who was, for decades, music director and executive director of NYCO, died today in Manhattan, age 93. He said earlier this year that he never dreamed he'd outlive the opera company (sigh). He had a huge impact on the company and its repertory, believing it should offer new, American, and less-well-known operas in addition to repertory staples. Staging Giulio Cesare decades ago for Beverly Sills helped make her a star and was a big part of the Handel revival over the last few decades.
RIP and thanks for all you did for opera.
His creepily atmospheric recording of Ginastera's Bomarzo is how I came to know and admire him.
ReplyDeleteRIP