Pauline Viardot spent her life juggling careers as a performer, composer, and teacher. Alma Mahler was told by her husband to quit composing and only focus on his work, and only 14 of her songs survive. Amy Beach had to publish her works under the name of Mrs. HHA Beach as one of the conditions of her marriage, and keep public performances and composing strictly limited. Libby Larsen gave us the music for a song cycle with text by the most infamous woman of the Wild West, Calamity Jane, which reveals the struggle of a singular, tender soul, who was a pioneer on many frontiers.

In this second recital of Festival Opera's season, two internationally renowned artists team up for an exquisite program of music by women composers. And yet She Persisted highlights the lives, conflicts, and genius of these under-celebrated composers. Carrie Hennessey and Jennifer Reason bring their special brand of joyous synergy to the recital stage, sharing their insight, artistic flare, and sublime musicality.

*** All are invited to a complimentary wine reception with the artists immediately following the performance. ***

Ms. Hennessey will return to perform Jake Heggie’s At the Statue of Venus at Walnut Creek's Lesher Center for the Arts in summer 2021.