Once again the South Coast Music Society has brought to us a wonderful concert of beautiful music.
On Sunday afternoon 9 August at St Bernard’s Church Batehaven, we were treated to highlights of some of the world’s favourite composers best loved operas and art song.
Performers from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music presented solos, duets, trios and ensemble items that rewarded the large audience who ventured out on a cold winters’ day.
The beautifully well matched voices of sopranos Zoe Drummond and Rebecca Moret performed Mozart’s “Letter Duet” from The Marriage of Figaro. Solos selected by these singers highlighted the lovely spinning quality and dramatic colour of their voices. The pianissimo at the end of “Senza mamma” by Puccini was exquisite.
Bass-baritone Jared Lillehagen sang Puccini’s “Questo amor, vergogna Mia” from Edgar with vibrant tone. He later performed Korngold’s “Mein Sehnen, Mein Wahnen with sensitivity and great vocal dynamics.
The rich, warm and creamy mezzo-soprano voice of Sarah Kemeny excelled in Rossini’s “Una voce poco fa” from Il Barbiere di Sivilia as it moved with agility over the challenging runs. Duets and trios followed which showcased a variety of musical style and versatility.
Soprano Michelle Ryan sang “O mio babbino caro” from Puccinni’s Gianni Schicci and Kunneke’s “Strahlender Mond” with a clear bright tone moving easily into the higher range of her voice. She, as with all the singers, performed their pieces with sincerity and honesty.
At the piano, accompanist Patrick Keith played for the singers with great aplomb throughout the concert.
Jasper Garner-Gore as emcee kept the audience informed of the storylines of each piece as all were performed in the original languages.
An encore of the popular “Time to say goodbye” finished a delightful concert.
On behalf of all who attended we wish these young performers all the best for their artistic careers.
he last concert in the SCMS 2015 series is Anna Goldsworthy, pianist, author and actor who will entertain us at 3.00 pm on 1 November 2015 at St Bernards, Batehaven. Bookings and further information at www.southcoastmusicsociety.com.
Andrea Annear
August 9, 2015