The School of Understanding

The School of Understanding is Michael Mantler’s magnum opus. Based on an original libretto, this self-styled “sort-of-an-opera” leverages the talents of Per Jørgensen, Jack Bruce, Mona Larsen, Susi Hyldgaard, Karen Mantler, John Greaves, and Don Preston, whose voices front an orchestral ensemble of vivid color. After a lush “Prelude,” “Introductions” familiarizes us with the story’s characters, all of whom represent different professions and social actors with stories to tell. Thereafter, Mantler’s trumpet weaves through the proceedings like a commentator throwing marginalia our way for consideration. Enigmatic, challenging, and wise, here is a work that defies categorization.