Two Composers, One Opera: Francesco Corti on Handel/Telemann's Otto

Okay, this episode has been such a treat to make. My guest is harpsichordist and conductor Francesco Corti, and honestly, I could have talked to him for three more hours.

This mini-series is dedicated to the Telemann Festtage Magdeburg made possible thanks to their wonderfully generous support, and a special thank-you to Fynn Liess, who helped make this whole collaboration happen.

So here's the mystery we're unpacking today: an opera called Otto — credited to both Handel AND Telemann. Two composers, one opera? How does that even work? I had so many questions, and Francesco had all the answers (plus a story that's honestly better than I expected).

https://telemann.de/event/otto-4

We also get into what it's actually like to stand in front of an orchestra as a conductor, how instrumentation gets built from the ground up, and what the real difference is between a baton and a baguette. (Turns out only one of them is edible. Barely.)

Curious, funny, full of insight: this conversation has everything. Come listen!

Huge thanks to Arcana recording label for allowing me to frame my episode with their stunning recordings!

Recordings for the episode are from Francescos` Spotify channel

JS Bach Praeludium BWV 815a

https://open.spotify.com/track/2ylClhXiW75PVQrqjcBtD6

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