Like any other composer of opera, I choose a subject not for polemical reasons, but because it contains vivid characters in highly charged dramatic situations.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
Any subject is good for opera if the composer feels it so intently he must sing it out.
My operas usually come from musical ideas rather than ideas about subject matter.
I've always loved opera; it never occurred to me that I would write a proper libretto.
Opera is a beautiful and important diversion for me.
As the director of an opera, it is my responsibility to unify the style of the particular performance, but one can certainly approach the piece from different points of view. That's what makes it interesting and keeps it alive.
People perceive opera and classical as elitist - I disagree. I've always tried to mix the two, make it more accessible.
I was never really interested in an operatic post, but I took on the Bastille because it seemed a unique opportunity to build an opera ensemble from scratch, and to deal with all the disciplines that go into opera - the music, the staging and the singing - in an interrelated way.
I love to conduct opera.
For me, few things are more compelling than watching a great opera.
Opera is one of the most important art forms. It should be listened to and appreciated by everyone.
No opposing quotes found.