USD Opera presents an exciting world premiere opera entitled "Notes on Viardot," based on the intriguing life of opera diva Pauline Viardot. This opera was commissioned by the USD Opera from renowned composer, Michael Ching.

Viardot was an internationally famed singer, highly respected voice teacher, exemplary pianist, and gifted composer who came from a prominent, high-powered musical family living in Paris in the 19th century. The opera takes a behind-the-scenes look at her professional and personal life, including her rumored affair with Russian poet Ivan Turgenev all the while married to Louis Viardot, a man 21 years her senior. Along the journey of her life, you will meet an array of Pauline’s famous friends, family and colleagues, including Georges Sand, Clara Schumann, Maria Malibran and more.

Music and libretto by Michael Ching
Director: Dr. Tracelyn Gesteland
Conductor: Michael Ching