Graduate recital in voice

Includes recorded audio files in WAV and MP3 formats, 81:56 in length.The works included in this program were chosen to present a varied sampling of the vocal literature spanning the last four centuries. As a result, this program presented a unique opportunity for growth stemming from the artistic and technical demands inherent to each genre. The opening set is a group of da capo arias selected from Alessandro Scarlatti's vast oeuvre including more than 115 operas. These arias are a product of the rich bel canto tradition and were composed in deference to an ideal concept of beauty from which 'true expression' arose. These works are parables of the human condition and its need for love. Realization of these arias requires clarity of line and fluid ornamentation where the musical content is repeated. Mozart's Exsultate, jubilate is a motet composed in three sections. The piece begins with a florid Allegro movement and is followed by an expressive Andante before rounding out with a final Allegro. This vocal concerto was written for soprano, organ and chamber orchestra. The work is a moving spiritual exhortation to raise burdened hearts to heaven and rejoice. In the great tradition of lieder, the selected Beethoven songs present an opportunity for subtle nuances of expression. Their beautiful, simple melodies demand strict obedience to the composer's intent yet allow the singer a chance to look inward to reveal the many levels of meaning. The four songs from Faure's opus 39 pay tribute to the composer's pioneering spirit. Unlike any of the preceding music on this program these songs present mini human dramas that are not shackled by conventional poetic and musical constraints. These songs are distinguished by the unique melodic contours which grow out of their richly varied texts. The final four songs, known collectively as Cantares de mi Tierra are compelling in their unrelenting lament. These songs employ a wide vocal and dynamic range with a characteristic Spanish flare. The intense exchange between voice and piano and sensual use of rubato create a pulsing, passionate drama that goes unresolved until the final chords