2008 Woodie Awards
Music department ensembles succeed in conglomerating for annual Masterworks
Ian Paterson
Issue date: 5/4/07 Section: Gallery
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Dr. James Tarrant, associate professor of music and director of choral studies, directed Masterworks, a tradition 30 years strong.
The evening began with "Alto Rhapsody (Op. 53)" by Johannes Brahams, a thirteen minute piece revolving around a vocal solo by Laura Compton, instructor of voice. Compton's mezzo-soprano echoed through the auditorium with a power and confidence that said confidently, "I don't even need a microphone."
Male members of the choirs and the previously mentioned instrumentalists accompanied "Rhapsody."
After the thirteen-minute operatic medley, the women of their respective vocal groups joined the rest of the performers for "Lux Aeterna" by Morten Lauridsen.
"Lux" consists of five movements performed attaca, without breaks. Each movement flows together into the next, creating one long, inspirational piece. At times I was confused as to whether the instruments were accompanying the vocalists or vice versa. Either way, I liked what I heard.
"Lux" is the kind of piece that inspires people - that moves people. The kind of music you would hear at the climax of a movie or listen to when you just need to relax in music.
Overall, Masterworks was a well put together production. Granted, I've seen more difficult pieces performed by the instrumentalists as well as the vocalists, but the way they meshed with one another greatly impressed me.
Masterworks was a great way to wrap up another great year of musical performances at SBU.
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