Singers that became too hot to Handel

OPERA Prelude’s new season starts with a look at tensions and clashes in the world of opera.

Soprano Georgie Malcolm will discuss how personal rivalries and differing vocal styles have influenced the operatic repertoire and how operas were received.

From Handel’s divas, Francesca Cuzzoni and Faustina Bordoni, in the 18th century to Maria Callas and Renata Tebaldi in more contemporary times, fine voices have been accompanied by fiery temperaments.

A graduate of the University of Edinburgh, going on to complete her postgraduate studies at the Royal Northern College of Music, Georgie Malcolm is in her final year of the opera course at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Last year, she won first prize at the Leach Award for Singing, for her oratorio and song singing.

“Duelling Divas: Soprano rivalries through the ages” is at Christ Church in Reading Road, Henley, on Friday, September 26 from 11am to 1pm. Tickets cost £30. For more information, visit operaprelude.org