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Remarkable Performance
Eisler, Gershwin, Mozart, Poulenc, Schumann and Weill
from Katie Bray and William Vann,
heard by MIKE WHEELER
Mezzo Katie Bray and pianist William Vann began their recital for Derby Chamber Music (Multi-Faith Centre, Derby University, Derby, UK, 20 January 2012) with Schumann's Frauen-liebe und -Leben, but aspects of 'a woman's life and love' -- regretful lover (Poulenc), world-weary prostitute (Weill), desolate mother (Eisler) -- was a thread that ran through the whole evening.
Bray's remarkable performance grabbed each experience as it passed with both hands. Though her rich-toned voice was occasionally a bit too powerful for this small venue she completely inhabited every moment of whatever she was singing. William Vann was an alert and sensitive partner...
Copyright © 26 January 2012
Mike Wheeler,
Derby UK
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