Finding Poetry in Prose

When: Sept. 27–29
Where: Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-371-5656

Traditionally, song cycles are settings of poetry. But Minnesota composer Dominick Argento has often found his inspiration in prose. In Casa Guidi, he sets to music the letters that Elizabeth Barrett Browning wrote to her sister. The work is getting a welcome performance by the Minnesota Orchestra this fall.

The letters date from the joyous time when she wrote, “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” Robert Browning had liberated her from her domineering father. They married and went to Italy, where they lived at Casa Guidi.

Argento’s music captures the romance of that great love, but also portrays their warm domesticity with wit and humor. Browning’s reaction to the death of her father, from whom she remained estranged, elicits music that is genuinely heartbreaking.

Canadian mezzo-soprano Susan Platts brings a distinctly rich voice and interpretive insight to her performance as Elizabeth. She is also featured in a performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony on the same program.