The final month of the 2022-2023 Free Concert Series season is here! With six unique performances in May—and one on June 1—this month offers a fitting finale to an unforgettable season. 

Join us for performances by our mainstage opera artists, COC Ensemble Studio, and more!

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Wednesday, May 3 at 12:00 p.m.
In All Seriousness
Önay Köse, bass; Stephen Hargreaves, piano

Turkish Bass Önay Köse recently left Berlin's famed Komische Oper, where he performed a variety of roles, including the Nightwatchman in Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg. Current projects include the artist’s debuts with the Opéra National du Rhin in Strasbourg as Jorg in Stiffelio and with the Grand-Théâtre de Luxembourg as Sparafucile in Rigoletto, while Canadian audiences will be able to see his springtime performance as Banquo in the COC's production of Verdi’s Macbeth. Accompanied by Stephen Hargreaves for his Free Concert Series recital, Köse will highlight his emotional range through a series of works by Brahms, Ibert, and Wolf.

Wednesday, May 16 at 12:00 p.m.
Life of a Baritone
Roland Wood, baritone; Simone Luti, piano

While visiting Toronto as part of the COC’s spring production of Tosca, Roland Wood demonstrates to audiences the professional life-cycle of a baritone. From the music a student might expect to sing during their training, to repertoire showcasing the various stages of vocal development of an opera singer, Wood will showcase his range and experience in this educational recital.

Wednesday, May 30 at 12:00 p.m.
Les Adieux
Jonah Spungin, baritone; Vlad Soloviev, piano

COC Ensemble Studio artists Jonah Spungin and Vlad Soloviev bid farewell to the Ensemble Studio with a graduating recital of art song that showcases the full extent of their musical and dramatic range.

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See our full performance schedule on the Free Concert Series web page!

As always, the Free Concert Series is free for all attendees, but arrive early! Doors open half an hour prior to the performance start time and admittance is granted on a first-come, first-served basis.

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The Free Concert Series in the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre is presented by:

Header photo: Karen E. Reeves

May 3 photo: Michael Cooper

May 30 photo: Gaetz Photography