Graduate voice recital

Includes recorded audio files in WAV and MP3 formats, 50:24 in lengthThis graduate vocal recital is composed of songs spanning the eras of the Baroque period though the twentieth century. I chose these pieces as a culmination of my academic study as a voice major for their lyrical beauty, and captivating texts. This recital is composed of pieces from many different periods; from the florid arias of George Frederic Handel to the haunting melodies of Ned Rorem. The selections represent vocal lyricism at its best. The pieces meld vocal lines, and piano accompaniments forming human communication, each unique to its era. Each composer featured on this recital demonstrates his own particular genius of setting various poets. The captivating melodies of each art song come to life through their individual stories of heartbreak, love, and romance.\ud George Frederic Handel was one of the most influential composers of Italian opera during the Baroque period. The innovations Handel made to this emerging art form influenced the world of opera forever. Alma Mia, an aria from the opera Floridante, is a light-hearted piece full of joy and bliss. This aria is done is in the da capo tradition, after the middle section, returning to the beginning and adding ornaments to embellish the melody. This was done in the highest taste, and was utilized by most composers of the Baroque era. Handel was also known for his oratorios. Total Eclipse, from the oratorio Samson, tells the dark story of Samson from the Bible. This short narrative is set in minor and captures the pure agony of Samson as he struggles with the concept of losing his sight.\ud One of the most prolific composers of German Lieder, Johannes Brahms, brought to this art form a new sense of lyricism and vocal beauty. Brahms took the melodic line of each Lied be composed and brought the poetry to life. Die Mainacht, composed from a text by Holty, tells the story of a melancholy man as he wanders sadly through the woods. This text is exquisitely illustrated by Brahms' use of word painting and lush harmonization. For Brahms the poet or poetry was not of the upmost importance, but rather the story that was told through each setting, calling forth his melodic genius. (See more in text.