Rock’s History Lesson

Years ago in a production of Verdi’s “Aida,” the story goes, a nervous elephant relieved itself onstage, prompting conductor Sir Thomas Beecham to remark, “Gad, what a critic!” I never thought so much excrement would again be presented on the stage of a major opera house--that is, until the MTV Video Music Awards (“Opera House Turns Hip-Hop Stage for MTV Awards,” by Elysa Gardner, Sept. 11).

It was appalling when host Chris Rock began by exclaiming, “I may be the first black man in history to take the stage of the Met without a mop.” To say this is to do injustice to Robert McFerrin (father of Bobby McFerrin), who made his debut there in January 1955, not to mention the many other splendid African American singers who have added their voices to the operatic glories of the company.

Shame on Rock, not only for dissing an institution blessed with individuals far more talented than himself, but for also having to get his African American history lesson from a white guy like me!

MATTHEW B. TEPPER

Los Angeles