FULL La Malinche (Barker) Mexico City 1992 Huesca Watts Murray Jackson

Premiere 1989: The London International Opera Festival Libretto by the composer drawn from historical documents of the conquest of Mexico, composer conducting.
In an age when few composers can still succeed in writing truly original music, Mr Barker who directed this performance has achieved something truly remarkable. Within a score that is satisfying for both singers and listener, he has struck a distinctive new note, exploring many unusual timbres. OPERA Magazine How refreshing to hear a new opera that is about music, based on elaborate, demanding and satisfying writing for a chorus of ten (excellently prepared and executed), and on genuine ability to write for the voice…nothing but praise for Barker’s conducting OPERA Magazine Barker’s latest piece, the 45-minute long La Malinche, was premiered at the Place on Wednesday. How refreshing to encounter a new opera that is about music, based on elaborate, demanding and satisfying writing for a chorus of ten (excellently prepared and executed), and on genuine ability to write rewardingly for the voice, both elements discreetly supported by a band of three…An evening of real musical substance, then; tonight’s repeat performance is warmly recommended.