Graduate recital in voice

Includes recorded audio files in WAV and MP3 formats, 60:43 in length.The value of the recital experience is immeasurable, commencing with the initial step requiring perusal of a vast amount of recital material, continuing with the selection of appropriate material for this particular recital, arranging for sufficient rehearsal time, and culminating with the performance experience. In building the recital program, it was decided to adopt the following plan. The recital began with a Baroque group, followed by a German lieder group (Schubert), a Mozart aria, a group of Moussorgsky songs and an English group. Since I am deeply involved in liturgical music, it was also decided to include a section composed of music of the synagogue. The individual songs within each group were carefully selected with regard to difficulty of range and contrast of mood and tempi. It was necessary to consider grouping songs, not only by musical period, style, or composer, but also, in terms of musical high points or climaxes within these groups. In addition, it was essential to find selections that would be performed at the conclusion of the first half of the recital and as the final song of the evening that offered an emotional and dramatic climax to the recital. The following problems were encountered in preparing for the recital: to comprehend and project each composition in a stylistically appropriate manner; to develop the vocal endurance required to sustain a full program; to sing with correct pronunciation and with meaning in several foreign languages; and to devote adequate time for study and rehearsal, in this case two and one half months of intensive preparation. The recital provided maximum opportunity for utilization of the various skills and knowledges gained as a graduate music student at San Fernando Valley State College. For these reasons it is, and will remain, an invaluable and unforgettable experience