UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State School of Music's Opera Theatre program will present a captivating series of performances and discussions centered on Franz Schubert’s beloved song cycle, "Die schöne Müllerin," and its innovative operatic reimagining, "The Miller’s Daughter" by Jodi Goble. Directed by new faculty members Dawn Pierce, assistant professor of voice, and Parker Konkle, adjunct lecturer, collaborative piano, this year’s opera events promise to celebrate artistic collaboration, musical depth, and the enduring power of storytelling.
"The Miller’s Daughter" transforms Schubert’s timeless work by expanding and reimagining the narrative through the lens of its original muse, the Miller’s Daughter. Goble, a Grammy-nominated composer known for compositions that shed light on women traditionally overlooked in historical narratives, brings her compositional and thematic expertise to this project.
Event schedule
Thursday, Feb. 27, noon
Bach’s Lunch Performance: "Die schöne Müllerin"
Pasquerilla Spiritual Center
Konkle will lead the piano and voice areas in a special performance of Schubert’s "Die schöne Müllerin." This iconic monodrama forms the foundation of "The Miller’s Daughter," offering audiences a chance to connect with the original work that inspired the mainstage opera.
Friday, Feb. 28, 3:30 p.m.
Friday Forum with Composer Jodi Goble
Room 110, Music Building I
Goble, composer of "The Miller’s Daughter," will lead a public masterclass featuring performances by Penn State voice students. Gain unique insights into her creative process as she works with students on selections from her operatic works.
Friday, Feb. 28, 6:30 p.m.
Pre-Concert Lecture with Jodi Goble
Room 110, Music Building I
Join Goble as she shares the conception, evolution and composition of "The Miller’s Daughter." Discover how she and librettist Victoria Erikson reimagined Schubert’s "Die schöne Müllerin" into a contemporary opera that delves into themes of love, loss and resilience.
Friday, Feb. 28, 7:30 p.m.
Opening Night: "The Miller’s Daughter"
Recital Hall, Music Building I
Experience the Penn State Opera Theatre’s premiere of "The Miller’s Daughter," a 60-minute operatic reimagining of Schubert’s "Die schöne Müllerin." With music by Goble and libretto by Erikson, this new work offers a fresh perspective on the miller’s story, weaving together Schubert’s themes with Goble’s poignant and modern musical language.
Saturday, March 1, 7:30 p.m.
Closing Performance: "The Miller’s Daughter"
Recital Hall, Music Building I
This groundbreaking opera project was the vision of Pierce, whose dedication to creating innovative opportunities for students and audiences alike has set the stage for this ambitious exploration of Schubert’s themes, reimagined through a contemporary lens. Highlighting the collaborative spirit of the Penn State School of Music, this project has been brought to life through meaningful partnerships across several departments. Konkle has been a vital collaborator throughout, along with the piano area, including the "Die schöne Müllerin" project and Caroline Barr serving as rehearsal pianist for "The Miller’s Daughter." The string area has provided essential support by assigning a cellist and violinist for Goble’s composition.
Collaboration with Penn State’s theatre department has also played a significant role. William Kenyon is designing the lighting, Andrew Haag and his students are creating the set with projections, and Rebecca Maciejczyk is choreographing the production while working with three dancers from Nittany Ballet. Additionally, two recent alums are involved: Eleonore Mackzura as costume designer and Nic Stark as stage manager. Together, these contributions reflect the breadth of artistry and teamwork that make "The Miller’s Daughter" a true community endeavor.
Admission is free to all events.