Kathmandu:

All we know about opera is that a lady dressed in a beautiful evening gown sings in a different way than what we usually listen to. For most Nepalis, operas exist only in movies that too in fleeting scenes barely allowing us to enjoy its music. But for the

first time, people of the Valley will get to enjoy a grand opera with three world-renowned performers.

Karin Leitner (flautist), Astrid Wilhelmsen (soprano) and Gerhard Löffler (guitarist) are set to give the Capital audience the feel of being in the palaces in Vienna.

“Opera is usually played in palaces in a formal setting where everyone is dressed formally to enjoy the music,” said Leitner, who has been playing the flute since the age of four. The have brought Austrian music, some well-known pieces and some classics of Mozart to entertain the audience on February 22 at Hyatt Regency.

“Our music might be different from what people have been hearing normally, but we will be giving some information before each piece. As we will be playing happy music, people will be able to relate with it. More than understanding the music, people should be able to enjoy the music,” said Wilhelmsen, who started singing at the age of six.

Though they are solo artistes, they perform as a team time and again at least three or four times a year. Hence, the chemistry between the artistes is very important.

Leitner said, “While on stage, we have to have to understand each other with expressions and communicate well.”

“It is very important to like the people you are performing with as it shows while you are on stage. We are very good friends on and off the stage,” said Wilhelmsen.

Löffler, who has been playing classical along with Brazilian and American style music said, “When you are on stage, your performance also depends on the response you get from the audience. Music is a give-and-take affair; when you give good music, you expect a good response and that helps in the performance.”

Leitner who has been to Nepal before and performed for Nepali audience said, “Performing here has always been wonderful and we expect the same this time.”

The United Nation Women’s Organisation (UNWO) president, Amele Tarakinikini said, “The event is being organised to generate funds for various projects we have been doing and planning for needy women and children. We have invited the opera artistes to provide something different to the Nepali society as we felt such kinds of cultural shows has not happened before.”

The fund raising event is being organised by UNWO in association with Austrian Cultural Forum, New Delhi and Hyatt Regency.