Onstage, an Alceste-Like Struggle (as Alceste)

During 28 years as music director of the estimable Collegiate Chorale, Robert Bass presented it in notable concert performances of operas with illustrious singers in major roles. The final such project he planned before his death last August, at 55, was a performance of Gluck’s “Alceste,” which took place in the Rose Theater on Tuesday night. The chorus, which sounded terrific, was joined by the New York City Opera Orchestra, conducted by George Manahan.

Any performance of “Alceste” requires a formidable soprano in the demanding title role. The Collegiate Chorale offered the chance to hear Deborah Voigt sing this touchstone role for the first time, surely one reason the house, at Jazz at Lincoln Center, was packed.Sadly, Ms. Voigt came down with the flu. She sang as scheduled, but through an announcement requested the audience’s indulgence. It would not have been easy to find a substitute on short notice, so it was valiant of her to perform. Read More Here