Strauss: Allersellen, Zueignung, and Morgen Richard Strauss was a late 17th Century German composer whose works were best known for his use of tone poems and opera. For this set, each piece (in listed order) reads a poem that discusses the very concept of love. Allersellen presents a message in which we must revisit the happy times that we spend together and remember how much you mean to some people. Zueignung discusses how much your heart can ache when you are far away from those that you enjoy spending time with. Finally, Morgen wraps up the set by stating that even though you may be apart from those that are gone, hopefully you will one day see them again. I decided to organize this ring of pieces first in my recital to acknowledge the care and support I have received from many members of my family who have sadly passed on during my time at Carthage, specifically my grandparents. They always encouraged me to be the “Best Brian I can be”, long after they were gone. With this set of pieces, I wish to say that I loved them dearly and I hope that someday I will be able to see them again, whenever that may be.
Dowland: Come Again, Sweet Love; Warlock: As Ever I Saw; Quilter: Fair House of Joy This set of pieces are composed by 17th and 19th Century composers in which the lyrics are anonymously written, whether by intention or if that information has been lost to time. They consist of love poems and expressions of love in each composition. I decided to include each of these pieces in my program as an “anonymous” set in order to recognize that there is some value behind the art that people may include in a musical work, much like how professors and individuals have seen value in me and the work that I contribute to music. Whether it’s newly discovered or reinforced, it is important to continue to recognize that any work that an individual may do should be appreciated for their contribution and service. There is a meaning behind everything we do!
Donizetti: Bella sicome un angelo (Don Pasquale) This piece in Donizetti’s, Don Pasquale, highlights the character Malatesta and his desire to lure Don Pasquale into a trap and expose him as the disgusting man that takes advantage of women. It is Malatesta’s job to convince Don Pasquale to attempt serenading his sister by describing all the wonderful things about her. She’s innocent, kind, simple-minded, why would you not want to love her? However, she is quite the opposite, intending to call out Don Pasquale on his vile behavior. This piece is included in my program as a part of the “opera” set. Specifically, I am trying to sell my acting chops and present myself as the showman that I am described to be, such as how Malatesta is trying to show off his sister to Don Pasquale.