Opera Matinee

The first installment in Richard Wagner's four-part operatic cycle, Der Ring des Nibelungen, and drawn from Scandinavian and German mythology and legend, Das Rheingold establishes the basis of the narrative in which gods, giants and humans clash in a struggle to gain control of gold from the Rhine River that can be crafted into a ring of world power. A recorded performance from London's Royal Opera House, Covent Garden.

Richard Strauss's highly-charged, emotional and psychological drama, based on the ancient Greek myth of Elektra, who becomes obsessed with avenging the murder of her father. This recorded performance of Royal Opera House, Covent Garden is led by Sir Antonio Pappano.

Marc-Antoine Charpentier's 1693 opera explores the dark and tragic tale based on Greek mythology of Médée, who uses her sorceress powers in vengeful acts against her unfaithful lover, Jason. A recorded presentation of Opéra de Paris, conducted by William Christie.

Berlioz explores the legend of Faust -- his existential despair, his pact with the devil, and his tragic descent into hell in powerful music that contemplates the human condition, blending elements of love, ambition, and the supernatural into an unforgettable spectacle. A recorded production of French National Opera, led by Cristian Măcelaru.

Verdi's grand opera, based on true conflicts from the 16th century in the life of Prince Carlos of Spain, is a love triangle, and a tale of power and betrayal set in motion by international politics and intrigue. A recorded performance of Teatro alla Scala, led by renowned conductor Riccardo Chailly.

Dvořák's take on a captivating fairy tale from Slavic mythology of Rusalka, a water nymph and her tragic love for a human prince and desperate quest for a soul. This recorded production of Opéra Royal de Wallonie features Corinne Winters in the title role.

Mozart's opera seria based on the ancient Greek myth of Idomeneo, King of Crete, who is beholden to a tragic vow he made with Neptune for safe travel. This recorded performance from the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, led by Sir Simon Rattle.

Puccini's verismo opera of love, jealousy and betrayal -- a dramatic love story set against the backdrop of political unrest in Rome. A recorded performance from Bavarian State Opera conducted by Andrea Battistoni.

Tchaikovsky's opera, considered his greatest in the genre, navigates the dark and obsessive tale of a man caught in a web of desire, gambling, and the supernatural. A recorded performance from Bavarian State Opera starring Brandon Jovanovich, led by Aziz Shokhakimov.