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John Young is an emerging composer with a background in music performance and a style that crosses genres.
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Death of IVAN ILYCH
Music by John Young with Libretto by Alan Olejniczak. Adapted from The Death of Ivan Ilych from the 1886 Novella by Leo Tolstoy. A Full Length Chamber Opera in One Act. Cast: 4 men, 1 women, 1 child (non singing) String quintet (or string ensemble), Oboe & Piano "There are quiet, subtle moments in John Young's score that beautifully and somehow effortlessly underscore the spirit of Tolstoy's world, which Alan Olejniczak's libretto lays out in scenes that are intimate and revealing in precise and poetic language." (Irek Sipowicz-Hicks) "Young’s music, richly orchestrated for string quintet, piano and oboe, keenly highlights the mournful situation and its awkwardness." "One of the most moving melodies is a haunting refrain, sung poignantly by Praskovya over her sleeping child." "The duets thrill, especially a point-counterpoint between an Orthodox priest and Ivan. A wistful love duet between Ivan and wife satisfies musically but softens the pair’s coldness from the original story." (Matt Palm - Orlando Sentinel) |
Thompson Street Opera Company Death of Ivan Ilych The World Premiere September 9-12, 2021 Grant Preisser, Directing Ivan: Pete Wesolowski Praskovya: Mary Lutz-Govertsen Vladimir Ivan/Praskovya's son: Ben Govertsen (age 6) Gerasim: Brian Pember Pyotr/Priest: Ross Matsuda Doctor: Dorian McCall ”The Death of Ivan Ilych is an adaptation of one of the great works of Russian fiction. The title character in the opera reflects on a life lived according to the expectations of his family and his society, and discovers a deeply rooted desire to recover his authenticity. Ivan Ilych reconnects with himself for only a few moments before the end of his life, but we can learn from his example and correct our own courses much sooner. The music of John Young is immediate and emotionally impactful. The lovely melodic lines and heart-wrenching harmonies may remind listeners of the romantic operas of Barber and Menotti. For the composer, who lost his singing voice and nearly his life to cancer, the story and message are deeply personal, and the connection is clear in his musical writing. This opera is a heartfelt ode to authentic living.” (Thompson Street Opera) 
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