Thanks to classical music guru Marc van Bree for the fantastic article about the trend OOO started here in Austin – opera in unexpected places!
Excerpt from the article, dated 9/20/2012:
Officially launched just last month, One Ounce Opera describes itself as Austin’s first operatic ensemble “dedicated to unique shows in unexpected locations.”
“I’ve been around rock bands since I was a kid,” writes Julie Fiore, founder of One Ounce Opera, in an email. “My dad is an active guitar player – so putting together an ensemble of singers that books venues like a band just made sense to me. Since OOO is not bound by any traditional structure other than the music itself, I thought, why not continue to challenge the opinion of opera as ‘dead’ and ‘elitist’?”
Fiore started One Ounce Opera because she felt stuck. She wanted a new perspective.
“Taking opera literally to the people – instead of hoping they will somehow come to you – is something I’ve been seeking to facilitate for over a year now. The concept of classical music organizations breaking out of traditional concert halls has been picking up speed, so hearing of others attempting the same excites me.”