(Bryn
Terfel)
One of the most memorable musical events in
Durban for a long time. (Review by Michael Green)
In one of the most memorable musical events
in Durban for a long time, the Welsh bass-baritone Bryn Terfel showed not only
a magnificent voice but also a captivating personality.
In a widely varied programme of songs
ranging from Mozart to Rodgers and Hammerstein he brought his City Hall
audience to a pitch of enthusiasm culminating in a prolonged standing ovation
at the end.
Bryn Terfel, aged 48 and the father of
three children, is one of the most celebrated opera singers in the world. The
24 songs in his Durban recital included only three operatic arias, from Mozart,
Arrigo Boito and Kurt Weill, and these did bring forth the full power and drama
of his voice.
But the rest of the programme was an ample
demonstration of his extraordinary versatility. He opened with Some Enchanted Evening from South
Pacific and continued with songs by John Ireland, Schubert, the well-known Traditional, Frederick Keel and some eloquent
popular items such as Home on the Range. The Schubert group, To be sung on the water, The Trout, and Litany, gave special evidence of the singer’s artistry.
He was accompanied by the distinguished
South African pianist Nina Schumann, who provided highly efficient and discreet
support throughout.
Terfel is a big burly man and his voice is
big, powerful, accurate and wonderfully controlled, be it in a thrilling
crescendo or a whispered pianissimo. His diction is excellent; you can hear the
words. His stage presence is remarkable.
He had the audience on their feet singing Loch
Lomond. He chatted informally about his boyhood in Wales as the son of a
farmer who kept cows and sheep. He came down steps to sing to ladies in the
audience and kiss a hand gallantly.
And he found time to mention Mrs Wendy
Cussons of Durban, who died recently and who some years ago gave a million
rand, anonymously, to the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra for the purchase of the
Steinway grand piano that graces the City Hall stage. Her passing has gone
unacknowledged, as far as I know, and it is ironic that it has taken an
international celebrity from Wales to pay tribute to her. - Michael Green
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