With an impeccable pedigree of competitions won, recital appearances at renowned festivals and concert halls, and a programme that included a few of the great war horses of classical repertoire, expectations ran high. And with the opening notes of the very first work, Let the bright Seraphim from Händel’s Samson, (sung by Kiri Te Kanawa at the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana) the audience knew it was about to embark on a delightful musical journey that was not going to disappoint.
The two South African musicians, soprano Sarah-Jane Brandon and pianist James Baillieu gave a unique performance of opera arias, Lieder and popular Christmas songs as part of the Hugo Concert Series at the Hugo Lambrechts Auditorium. Both Brandon and Baillieu completed their undergraduate studies at theUniversityofCape Townand are currently residing inLondonwhere they are building on their already well-established careers. This event was a rare and exciting opportunity to hear these two musicians in collaboration and on home ground.
Brandon and Baillieu showcased their technique and interpretive mastery with an exceptionally diverse programme that included works from Händel, Schubert, Strauss, Verdi, Dvořák and Mozart. James Baillieu’s performance was true to his reputation as “the leader of the new generation of accompanists”. Exhibiting masterly control over even the most delicate of phrases, he managed to create a convincing and engaging atmosphere for each and every work.
And while Baillieu’s accompaniment of the opera arias showed orchestral flare,Brandon’s full-bodied voice was rich and creamy and her interpretation was mesmeric. For one of such a young age her performance was captivating and astoundingly mature. It is certain that this deserving winner of the 2009 Kathleen Ferrier Competition is a huge talent with a promising career ahead. The ensemble between Brandon and Baillieu can also not be faulted; every cue was spot on and Baillieu’s support and direction allowedBrandonto explore her musical artistry to the full.
Some highlights of the concert include An die Untergehende Sonne from Franz Schubert, Befreit from Richard Strauss and an overpowering performance of Mia Madre Aveva…Ave Maria from Giuseppe Verdi’s Otello. Brandon and Baillieu concluded their concert with a number of popular Christmas songs to celebrate the festive season. The audience enjoyed the playful Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas (composed by Ralph Blane and Hugh Martin) and was even asked to join in with the soprano in singing Silent Night… which proved to be somewhat difficult since the key in which it was played was much too high for the average amateur singer!
The 2011Cape Towncalendar for classical music performances is certainly ending on a high note. I am now going to do as I was told and have myself a merry little Christmas. And I hope that you have one too.
Andra le Roux-Kemp
Sarah-Jane Brandon and James Baillieu performed as part of the Hugo Concert Series at the Hugo Lambrechts Auditorium on 18 December 2011.
