The University of Queensland is delighted to welcome Italian opera coach and répétiteur Otello Visconti to the School of Music for a special concert celebrating more than four centuries of Italian opera. A pianist and maestro collaboratore whose career has been built in the Italian theatre, Visconti has spent the lead-up to this concert working directly with UQ's emerging singers on language, style, dramatic interpretation and performance practice — the craft that is passed from one generation of Italian singers to the next.
That work is the heart of the evening. Joining Visconti is Lucia Casbarra, whose knowledge of the Italian operatic tradition has likewise shaped the students' preparation, and together they provide an invaluable connection between UQ's training program and the professional operatic world. Distinguished guest artists Milijana Nikolic and Rosario La Spina bring further professional experience and insight, alongside the exceptional collaborative artistry of pianist Šárka Budínská and the contribution of Nick Kirkup.
The program itself traces the extraordinary diversity and enduring influence of the tradition: from the dramatic intensity of Monteverdi and the comic brilliance of Cimarosa and Rossini, through the bel canto of Donizetti and Bellini, to the powerful drama of Verdi, Mascagni and Leoncavallo and the romanticism of Puccini.
More than a concert, Italian Opera at UQ offers audiences a journey through one of the world's great operatic traditions, while giving the next generation of singers the rare opportunity to experience that tradition at close hand, with artists who have lived and worked within it.
About Nickson Room Concert Series
The University of Queensland School of Music is proud to present our Nickson Room Concert Series for 2026. In reflecting the School's role in the broader South-East Queensland community, we have designed a diverse and exciting program. With established international and national artists performing, as well as our own emerging student artists, this year is set to be a vibrant, creative, and energetic time at the UQ School of Music. We look forward to connecting with you.
