As the winter chill descends upon Philadelphia, the Academy of Vocal Arts (AVA) is set to enchant audiences with a lineup of captivating winter performances for the 2023-24 season. This year, AVA brings forth a rich tapestry of vocal artistry, featuring masterpieces that span the realms of classical and opera.

Kicking off the new year, AVA presents its annual Winter Recital featuring Franz Schubert’s hauntingly beautiful Winterreise, beginning on January 9, 2024. The iconic song cycle, known for its poignant exploration of love and loss, will be showcased at AVA’s Helen Corning Warden Theater, creating an intimate setting for audiences to immerse themselves in Schubert’s melancholic melodies. Adding to the enchantment, a special matinee performance will take place at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, offering a unique atmosphere that complements the ethereal nature of the composition. Winterreise promises to be a soul-stirring journey through the depths of emotion, showcasing the vocal prowess of AVA’s talented Resident Artists.

Following in February is Benjamin Britten’s chamber opera, The Rape of Lucretia, opening on February 17, 2024, and gracing the stage of AVA with four performances. Britten’s powerful work delves into the timeless themes of betrayal, honor, and the human condition. With its intimate setting, AVA’s presentation of The Rape of Lucretia promises to be a visceral experience, allowing audiences to connect deeply with the emotional intensity of the narrative. As the artists of AVA breathe life into Britten’s compelling characters, the stage becomes a canvas for the exploration of complex emotions and moral dilemmas.

Continuing the winter saga, AVA invites audiences to Jubilate! A Concert of Sacred Music. The first performance of this spiritual celebration takes place at the Church of the Holy Redeemer in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, creating a sacred ambiance that enhances the transcendent nature of the music. The journey culminates with a second performance at Rittenhouse Square’s Church of the Holy Trinity, ensuring that audiences have the opportunity to experience this uplifting concert in the heart of center city Philadelphia. In Jubilate!, AVA’s Resident Artists weave together a tapestry of sacred music, spanning the eras of classical repertoire and featuring the world-class talents of the AVA Orchestra. Within hallowed church halls, this concert promises to be a celebration of the spiritual dimensions of vocal artistry.

Finally, experience the exhilarating energy of Gioachino Rossini’s comedic masterpiece, Il barbiere di Siviglia, coming to AVA this spring. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Seville, this opera promises a delightful blend of wit, romance, and impeccable vocal artistry. AVA’s Resident Artists bring to life the timeless story of the cunning Figaro and the lovestruck Count Almaviva in a spectacle that captures the essence of 19th-century Italian bel canto opera. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Rossini’s music and the Academy of Vocal Arts’ dedication to nurturing emerging vocal talent. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a captivating fusion of skillful performances and the enduring charm of Il barbiere di Siviglia this spring.

Tickets and subscriptions are available online at AVAopera.org and via telephone at (215) 735-1685.