Classical MusicMusic ReviewsMUST SEEREVIEWS

Lawrence Brownlee & Eric Owens in Recital

With  Craig Terry, piano.

At the Civic Opera House, Chicago.

April 9 at 3 pm.

Wonderful recital featuring a fabulous tenor and a powerful bass-baritone plus an outstanding pianist.

Sunday, April 9th was yet another day of brilliant performances as energetic tenor. Lawrence Brownlee, fresh from a terrific turn as Charle Parker together with the powerhouse bass-baritone, Eric Owens a versatile repertoire accomplished by pianist/arranger Craig Terry.

The program for this recital featured a rich assortment of opera arias in act one. Mozart, several Donizerri works plus Verdi, Gounod and a couple Bizert arias were featured as Brownlee’s exciting tenor and Owens’ rich bass-baritone thrilled the  audience. Craig Terry’s skilled musicianship underscored the arias with fine piano work.

 

Act two moved unexpectedly to aa assortment of traditional songs including “All Night, All Day” from Mr. Brownlee, “Deep River” by Mr. Owens  and a duet of “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.” Craig Terry’s arrangements were also feartured including duets  of “Song of Songs, ” “Dolores,” “Through the Years, “and “Every Time I Feel the Spirit.” I particularly enjoyed Mr. Owens’ rendition of “Lollipops and Roses” and Mr. Brownlee’s “Lulu’s Back in Town.”

It was a first-class treat to hear such talented singers as they were having such a good time entertaining the audience. The mutual respect was apparent as Mr. Brownlee, Mr. Owens and Mr. Terry each cherished their moments together in song and music. This was a special classical music treat that begs for more performances.

Highly Recommended.

Tom Williams.