Would You Compare the Atomic Bomb to a God?

In John Adams’ Doctor Atomic, there are many allusions to and even direct quotes from sacred texts. This contrast with the scientific components in the opera highlights the social and moral impact that must be considered when something like the atomic bomb is being developed. In act two of the opera, “At the Sight of…

The Trinity Site

    Reading about the Adams’ creation, I was surprised by the aria “Batter My Heart” [Holly Sonnet written by John Donne}; which is sung by the main character of this opera (Oppenheimer). The first thing I liked about this before listening to the music, was Peter’s reason to use this text/poem for this Aria;…

“Am I in your light?” A Musicial Analysis of Kitty’s Aria from John Adams’s Doctor Atomic

In chapter six of his Hallelujah Junction: Composing an American Life, John Adams argues that tonal harmony is the most powerful musical element for provoking strong emotional responses, and that atonality (as well as other twentieth century harmonic systems) have so far failed to move listeners on a deeply emotional level. This conviction is evident…

Emotions through Musical Elements in “Red Alert”

A world premiere of a new opera in October 2005 in San Francisco had a very relatable and touchy story line for audience members. John Adams’ Doctor Atomic has the plot of the making of the world’s first atomic bomb. Even though years had passed since the use of the atomic bomb on Japan, the…