Cathy Dunn, Mike Cavalieri, and Bill Cernota perform at the Merion
This summer, musicians from the orchestra and chorus of Lyric Opera of Chicago joined forces to present concerts at two retirement centers, on August 1 at the Covenant Home of Chicago located in the Andersonville neighborhood, and on August 16 at the Merion in Evanston.
Ken Donovan and Cathy Dunn at the Merion
Knowing it is difficult for the residents to come to the Civic Opera House, we came to them with wonderful programs of opera arias and American musical favorites, including Verdi’s “La Donna e Mobile” and Rogers and Hammerstein’s “Some Enchanted Evening.” Our own Bill Cernota, cellist, performed Saint-Saens' “The Swan” with pianist (and chorus member) Cathy Dunn. Vocal selections were sung by Bob Morrissey, Sherry Watkins, Jeff Taylor, Ken Donovan, Mike Cavaliere, Rachael Holzhousen, Yvette Smith. and Pam Williams.
Bill Cernota (L) performs "The Swan" ; Jeff Taylor (R) sings “Toreador” with Cathy Dunn on piano
Sherry Watkins and Cathy Dunn, with residents of Covenant Home
Cellist Cernota says, “We always talk with the residents after the concerts. Several who were Lyric subscribers in the past said they hoped we would return because they are no longer able to attend performances.” These concerts, along with the radio broadcasts, keep these music lovers engaged with Lyric Opera of Chicago.
A big thank you to all!
Rachael Holzhausen, Pam Williams, Yvette Smith, Ken Donovan