By Gianmarco Segato, Adult Programs Manager

For Episode 19, the “Opera critics UNITE!” edition, we welcome back opera journalists Joseph So, and Paula Citron; Western Canadian opera presenter and journalist, Stephan Bonfield as well as opera blogger John Gilks. New to the panel is Toronto music critic and musician, John Terauds. Gianmarco Segato, the COC’s Adult Programs Manager, is your host.

We took advantage of the critic-heavy presence this week to hold a round table discussion on the past, present and future of classical musical criticism (sneaking in a couple of other timely topics as well!)

• Sad news in the opera world as New York City Opera folds
• Opera company troubles are unfortunately not only making news south of the border as Edmonton Opera announces financial troubles
• The Music Critics Association announces a new website, “North America Classical Voice North America” – this may be the future of professional music criticism… but is anyone getting paid?