Those of you who have been reading this site for awhile know that I am an enthusiastic supporter of New York City Opera, having joined their excellent and affordable Big Deal program for young patrons last season. That support turned into full-blown admiration after City Opera announced they had hired Gerard Mortier, the Director of the Paris Opera, as their next General Manager, starting in 2009.

So, when I was approached by City Opera to become a contributor to their new blog, I jumped at the chance. For those who think this somehow compromises my objectivity as an independent blogger, I have been assured that I will be able to write whatever I want, without censorship. More importantly, what's taking place at City Opera is the single most important development in New York music since Lincoln Center opened nearly 50 years ago, and is one of the biggest things happening anywhere in the world right now. Mortier is dedicated to making City Opera an international destination for cutting-edge productions that honors the repertoire not only as musical masterpieces, but as vital works of theater that speak directly to our generation. Who wouldn't want a front row seat for that?

My first contribution, covering Mortier's appearance last night at the Morgan Library, can be read here. More pics are below.

My second post will cover tonight's performance of Henry Purcell's King Arthur, directed and choreographed by Mark Morris. Somehow, I need to figure out a way to get it done before I leave for Austin tomorrow.