Frederica von Stade, mezzo-soprano & Richard Stilwell, baritone
Saturday December 10, 2005, 7:30 pm

Unparalleled in her artistry as a recitalist, Frederica von Stade combines expressive vocalism with exceptional musicianship. Since her triumph in the Metropolitan Opera auditions, she has sung nearly all of her great roles with that company in addition to other opera houses around the world. She has received numerous honors including the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, as well as honorary degrees from major universities.

Richard Stilwell's career includes impressive credits with major opera houses throughout North America. He has been a leading artist at the Metropolitan Opera since his debut, including his appearance in the title role at the Met premiere of Billy Budd. He has also been in demand in Europe at Covent Garden, Deutsche Oper, and the Opéra de Paris among many others.

Among many notable partnerships between Ms. von Stade and Mr. Stilwell, was the Dallas Opera world premiere of Dominick Argento's The Aspern Papers, a production televised nationwide on the PBS "Great Performances" series. Their performances together in Pelléas et Mélisande of Debussy and Il Ritorno d’Ulisse in Patria of Monteverdi have been recorded with Karajan and Leppard respectively.