The best part of the upcoming Indianapolis Opera’s “Chorus in Concert” for Stephanie Courter is the opportunity to make extraordinary music with such a great group of friends and colleagues.
“Many of the singers in the chorus have worked together for years, and this concert is a unique opportunity to showcase the talents of the chorus members,” Courter said. “And it gives the singers a great chance to spend time collaborating with good friends.”
Indianapolis Opera’s “Chorus in Concert” is set for 7:30 p.m. Feb. 9 and 3 p.m. Feb. 10 at the Basile Opera Center, 4011 Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.
Courter, a Carmel resident, said there is much to love musically about the concert.
“Some of the pieces are so poignant and touching, while others, like the selections from ‘The Mikado,’ allow us to have fun and show the playful side of singing,” Courter said.
With the concert covering several eras of opera, Courter said the concert has something for everyone.
“Well-known choruses from grand opera, playful pieces from operetta, and everything in between,” she said.
This is Courter’s second season with the chorus. The Ice Miller attorney previously sang for three seasons with the Anchorage Opera when she lived in Alaska.
“It is great to have a professional musical opportunity in town to take advantage of when I’m not at my day job,” she said.
Noblesville resident Dietgard Bittner has been with Opera Chorus since 2010.
“I was an opera singer when I lived in Germany, so when I moved here to be with my husband, this was my only chance of doing opera,” she said. “So, I jumped at the chance to do so.”
Bittner said her favorite piece in the concert is “The Merry Widow.”
“I’m always happy when I get to sing German, but a lot of the music is amazing,” she said.
John Schmid is celebrating his 35th season as chorus master.
“To have someone with his knowledge of and love for the music dedicate 35 years to Indianapolis Opera has been an incredible gift to the company,” Courter said.
Joshua Armenta will present a world premiere piece, “Ice Shall Cover Ninevah,” to honor Schmid.
For tickets, visit indyopera.org.
