Zorro: Video Lecture Series
Discover the Making of a Modern Opera Hero
Step beyond the stage and into the creative process behind Zorro: The Making of a Modern Opera Hero. In this online lecture series, I reflect on my artistic journey as a composer, the cultural and historical forces that shaped the work, and the musical and dramatic decisions that brought Zorro to life.
A free interactive Lecture Companion is also available for those who wish to explore key themes and questions in a conversational format while viewing the series.
Watch the Lecture Series
This two-part lecture series takes you inside the historical, cultural, and musical forces that shaped Zorro: The Making of a Modern Opera Hero.
You’ll explore: - My personal journey as a composer and the cultural roots that led me to Zorro - The political and historical realities of Spain and Alta California that ground the story - How a pulp fiction legend becomes a fully structured operatic narrative - Writing the synopsis, identifying aria moments, and building the opera scene by scene - Musical influences from Verdi and Puccini — and how they informed (and challenged) my approach - The integration of Mexican and Spanish traditions, from corridos to flamenco - How characters are defined through motif, rhythm, and orchestral color - The role of time signature, pacing, and orchestration in creating dramatic tension
Free Interactive Lecture Companion
The free Zorro Online Lecture Companion expands on both parts of the lecture series — from my personal journey as a composer to the historical, dramatic, and musical architecture of the opera.
In a conversational, chatbot-based format, you can ask questions about the story, characters, cultural roots, and compositional choices behind Zorro, and explore at your own pace. The Companion also includes audio excerpts from past Zorro productions to help bring key moments of the score to life.
Who This Series Is For
The Zorro Video Lecture Series is designed for opera lovers, educators, students, and anyone curious about how an opera is created. No musical training is required. While the series is accessible to general audiences, music students will also gain insight into the compositional and dramatic process behind Zorro: The Making of a Modern Opera Hero.
Access the Full Lecture Series
The complete Zorro Online Lecture Series is available in two access options:
30-Day Access - Full streaming access to the entire lecture series for 30 days.
Lifetime Access - Permanent streaming access to all lecture videos and materials.
Both options include the complete two-part series exploring my personal journey as a composer, the historical foundations of the opera, the development of the libretto, musical influences, character motifs, cultural traditions, and orchestration.
Schools and opera companies may inquire about classroom or production licensing options.
