Der Wald by Smyth, Fra (2023/2023), Dirigent Panaretos Kyriatzidis, Holy Sepulchre Church, London, United Kingdom

Join The Opera Makers for a unique chance to hear Ethel Smyth's never recorded Der Wald - The Forest. Sung in the original German, but with insights and storytelling, we will bring this tragic fairytale to life. Ethel Smyth composed opera during an era in which gaining recognition in the world of classical music was exceptionally hard for women. Nevertheless, she fought to maintain her independence and to keep creating her art. Since 2018, her work, which had drifted into obscurity, has become increasingly recognised and celebrated. Der Wald is now one of the few remaining works of hers which has not been commercially recorded. Her music is intriguing and unique. It is not easy or loaded with big tunes, but is influenced by the melodic complexity of Wagner and Strauss, with moments of searing beauty and passion.