“El Faisán” (“The Pheasant”)

Miguel Lerdo de Tejada and José de Jesús Núñez y Domínguez, "El Faisán" ("The Pheasant")
Denis Vélez, soprano; Craig Terry, piano

Miguel Lerdo de Tejada (1869-1941) was for decades one of Mexico's most prominent musicians, working as a songwriter, pianist, and conductor. Throughout his career he composed zarzuelas that earned great public acclaim. Like many of his compatriot composers, Tejada also had a strong interest in adapting traditional melodies into modern arrangements. He was most famous, however, for his own songs, many of which gained huge popularity, among them the lush and emotional waltz "El Faisán."

The lyrics of "El Faisán" are by one of Mexico's most celebrated men of letters, José de Jesús Núñez y Domínguez (1887-1959), who made a powerful impact as a poet, essayist, historian, and journalist, as well as in his work as a diplomat.

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*** Ryan Opera Center Ensemble

Provide the stars of tomorrow with your support today

Provide the stars of tomorrow with your support today

The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center is Lyric's preeminent artist-development program that nurtures the talents of some of the most promising operatic singers and pianists of each generation.

Donor generosity ensures continued unparalleled training, performance experience, and professional readiness of Ensemble members. By donating to the Ryan Opera Center you help provide:

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About the Ryan Opera Center

About the Ryan Opera Center

The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center is Lyric's preeminent artist-development program that nurtures the talents of some of the most promising operatic singers and pianists of each generation. The program's Ensemble members earn their coveted spot by successfully auditioning among more than 400 artists worldwide. Its alumni are among the dominant names in opera today. Donor generosity ensures continued unparalleled training, performance experience, and professional readiness of Ensemble members. This highly competitive program, established in 1974, is honored to enjoy the support of acclaimed soprano Renée Fleming as Advisor, along with full-time staff Director Dan Novak, Music Director Craig Terry, and Director of Vocal Studies Julia Faulkner.

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Photos: Kyle Flubacker