Tokyo Performances

Mozart, Arias,and Choruses

I have been lax in my reporting.
I attended a concert featuring soprano Mai Washio singing the soprano parts to Mozart's Requiem on February 19. The orchestra was a young group of former classmates which apparently performs once a year. The first half of the program featured Beethoven's 4th symphony, which seemed to me to be forgettable. But, what do I know, he was Beethoven after all. The Mozart was ably performed and is a likable work - particularly as a requiem. Ms Washio has a lovely voice and charming presence. This being Japan, the female soloists dressed in black.
The following Saturday, February 26, I heard Ms Washio again in a program of selections from operas - both orchestral and arias for soprano or tenor. Ms Washio was the highlight of the day - a silvery voice and a lovely visage. Her "Summertime" from Porgy and Bess was excellent. The tenor, Jiro Takano, was less able.
On Friday, March 4, the annual Kanto Plain Honor Choir concert was held at the Sacred Heart chapel. The first part of the program featured vocal ensembles from various international schools, and the groups from Sacred Heart, St. Mary's and CIJ were outstanding. I say this with all modesty since I was a percussionist on one of the Sacred Heart numbers.
But the evening belonged to the Kanto Plain Honor Choir under the amazing leadership of guest conductor Elena Sharkova. The resonance of the chapel was perfect for a piece from the Rachmaninoff "All Night Vigil" and even the basses were excellent. An inspiring evening for a teacher.

posted by Larry Wells @ 6:06 PM