TogetherAryeh Nussbaum Cohen and Konstantin Shamrayare a rare musical delight.
Presented by Adelaide Festival
Reviewed 9th March 2021
The vast majority of performing artists this year are Australian, for obvious reasons. Therefore, hosting the rising star of American opera, Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen, is a triumph for the Adelaide Festival. On Tuesday evening Cohen performed in recital with internationally acclaimed pianist (and Adelaide resident) Konstantin Shamray.
The program boasts a dizzying selection of songs that perfectly display Cohen’s versatility. Singing interchangeably in English, German, French, and Yiddish, Cohen’s ability to emote transcends language. As he sings Johannes Brahms’ My Wounded Heart the audience feels his sorrow, and in Motionless Tepid Air, his passion and yearning. His silvery and unique counter-tenor voice is perhaps best showcased in an aria from Handel’s Rodelina, Vivi, Tiranno, in which he perfectly performs the coloratura.
Shamray’s performance is not simply an accompaniment, but one half of the duet. He shows a graceful command over the keyboard as he places each note with a soft touch of the fingers. Shamray shines particularly bright during the songs by Brahms and Henri Duprac.
To close the performance, Cohen and Shamray loosen their ties before playing three twentieth century favourites. Cohen introduces Misty as holding special meaning for his fiancé – his performance is a little breathy and soulful. The audience erupts in applause before Shamray can even play the final note to I Get A Kick Out Of You.
Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen in Recital with Konstantin Shamray is a rare musical delight – at once offering classical recital, Yiddish prayer, and a friendly jam session.
Reviewed by Nicola Woolford
One Night Only – Season Ended
Rating out of 5: 4.5
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