A discussion with musicologist Stephan Bonfield about the composition and orchestration of Carmen. This podcast also looks at the layers beyond the music; the story makes this more than just an opera with catchy and memorable tunes.

The music drives the plot of The Merry Widow, and Lehár's ability to compose music in a brillant way is discussed, as well as the dancing — waltzes, can-cans and more — and the way he also incorporated folk tunes and lore with the "Vilja" song. View in iTunes.

The famous mad scene and sextet of Lucia di Lammermoor is discussed, as well as the literary ties to Walter Scott's novel and other aspects of the opera. View in iTunes.

A discussion with musicologist Stephan Bonfield about the complexity — and simplicity — of the plot of Mozart's The Magic Flute, as well as the composition and personality traits of the characters. View in iTunes.

A discussion with musicologist Stephan Bonfield about the composer Rossini, his composing style and Edmonton Opera's October 2014 production of The Barber of Seville. View in iTunes.

A discussion with musicologist Stephan Bonfield about Puccini's composing style and the effect of some of the well-recognized melodies from Madama Butterfly, including the love duet between Butterfly and Pinkerton, and the Humming Chorus. View in iTunes.

This discussion about Johann Strauss' Die Fledermaus looks not only at the intricacies of the plot, but also discusses Strauss' legend as the Waltz King, the nuances of the music itself, and the complexity of the melodies. View in iTunes.

A discussion about the plot and intricacies of Richard Strauss' Salome, with musicologist Stephan Bonfield. View in iTunes.