|
 |
RECORDINGS
Recital
JÖRG WASCHINSKI: "ICH STAND IN DUNKLEN TRÄUMEN"
 Songs by Clara Schumann. Aulos-Streichquartett Berlin. Texts and translations. Deutschlandradio Kultur Phoenix Edition 170
German countertenor Jörg Waschinski (who rightly calls himself a soprano) presents a recital of Lieder by Clara Schumann in his own arrangements for string quartet. The transcription was a wise move, as the singer's delicate, sweet voice blends nicely with the warm but clear sound of the Berlin Aulos String Quartet, and the luscious carpet of instrumental sound (nicely recorded and balanced) buoys up Waschinski's somewhat feeble voice.
Soft high notes and fragile tones characterize the opening track, "Ich stand in dunklen Träumen" (on a text by Heinrich Heine also set by Schubert as "Ihr Bild") and the CD begins promisingly. By the third song, however, the lively "Walzer," it's clear that Waschinski lacks the bite and edge that characterize the violin playing, and he is unable to open up for the climaxes of "Liebeszauber."
With his romantic musical temperament, Waschinski just needs more color and variety to serve the repertoire. The fascinating 1831 song "Der Wanderer" needs more hush and mystery than Waschinski's bright, pale voice can manage, and several of the songs, especially "Die stille Lotosblume" and "Mein Stern" would be more effective in their original piano versions.
Simpler songs, such as "Das Veilchen," on the familiar Goethe poem, and the 1840 setting of Heine's "Volkslied," ("Es fiel ein Reif in der Frühlingsnacht") are especially successful, and Waschinski's reverent take on the remarkable song, "Der Mond kommt still gegangen," is captivating.
JUDITH MALAFRONTE
Send feedback to OPERA NEWS.
|
