SOPRANO Elizabeth Watts, with pianist Simon Lepper, entranced a large and appreciative audience in St Michael’s Church, Milverton, on March 7 with a concert of songs based on The Nightingale and the Rose – a story of love, loss and sacrifice; emotions which have inspired poets and composers from many countries and periods.
Watts, winner of the Song Prize at the 2007 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition, has an established and growing international reputation on the operatic and concert stage.
It was easy to understand why: her rich and radiant voice, powerful and expressive, delivered compelling interpretations of songs by Strauss, Duparc, Britten and several Spanish-speaking composers.
It is not only as a singer, but also as an actor, that she is able to communicate with her audience and command their rapt attention.
Her artistry was complemented by that of pianist Simon Lepper, whose sensitivity and virtuosity helped to ensure a challenging, stimulating and deeply rewarding musical experience.
The offerings of Milverton Concert Society are known for their high quality: last Friday’s concert will have burnished that reputation even more brightly.
ANDREW CARTER
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