Teatro Real

This historic theatre is celebrating its 200th anniversary. I have managed to attend three music events that happened to be on during the week that I am here in Madrid.
The first was a chamber music concert. The music was played by several different groups. There was a clarinet piece by Tchaikovsky, a Borodin quartet for strings, a very difficul Shostakovich piece for violin, cello and piano, two pieces by Spanish composers - one for brass and the other for a string quartet. Much enjoyed.
Then I was fortunate to see and hear the Nutcracker Ballet performed by the National Dance Company. Wonderful costumes, superb ballet dancing and a great orchestra.
Lastly I went to an Opera “Only the sound remains” by Japanese composer Kabila Saariaho who composed it in 1952.  Two principle singers - a baritone and a counter tenor (or alto) and a dancer on stage. Off stage four singers and an orchestra playing unusual Japanese type of music. I had a ticket in the “Gods”. The audience liked it but I found it, although a very professional performance, somewhat difficult to get used to.