Free German Lieder Concert Offered at THT July 10

Middlebury College is famous for its "total immersion" summer language program, in which students are required speak, read and even think in the language they're studying for the length of their stay.

The German for Singers program takes this a step further, combining music and voice instruction with the traditional language curriculum. Talented young singers from all over the country will be featured in two upcoming productions at Middlebury's Town Hall Theater.

A recital of German lieder will be held on Sunday, July 10, at 8 pm. The event is free, and will begin at 8 pm. A reception follows the recital.

On Friday, August 5, the program offers its very first staging of an entire opera-- Mozart's rarely performed La finta giardiniera. Considered by some to be among Mozart's best early work, it was his second comic opera, written at the age of 18. Though very well received at its premiere in Munich in 1775, it disappeared after only three performances and is rarely revived today.

Curtain is at 8:00 pm, and a reception follows the performance.
There are a limited number of tickets available for people not associated with the college, so opera lovers should book as soon as possible for a chance to see this early rarity. Tickets for the non-college community are $15, and may be purchased at www.townhalltheater.org, by calling 382-9222, or by visiting the THT box office (Mon-Sat, Noon - 5 pm).

PHOTO CAPTION: The Middlebury College German for Singers program presents two programs this summer at Middlebury's Town Hall Theater, including Mozart's early opera, La finta giardiniera. For tickets and information: www.townhalltheater.org, 802 382-9222, and at the THT Box Office (Mon-Sat, noon-5 pm).