Summary of Dissertation Recitals: Notes on Three Performances

Abstract

Two recitals and an opera role were performed in lieu of a written dissertation. The following program notes and character analysis represent a journey through artistry, vocal scholarship, and pertinent research as a doctoral student at the University of Michigan. The two dissertation recital performances and the operatic role of Elle in Poulenc’s La voix humaine demonstrate proficiency in a range of languages and styles, an application of vocal skill and expertise both technically and interpretatively, and a depth of understanding of the repertoire as it pertains to both style and context. The first recital, “Songs of Love and Loss,” included art songs of the late Romantic era including works by Jean Sibelius, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Henri Duparc, Stefano Donaudy and Richard Strauss. The second dissertation recital, “Tapas musicales: A ‘Spanish’ Song Recital,” explored Spanish inspired music and art songs in Spanish dialects with music by Alberto Hemsi, Joseph Canteloube, Gioachino Rossini, Maurice Ravel, Manuel de Falla and Georges Bizet. An analysis of the psychology of the sole character of La voix humaine was explored in depth as demonstrated by the poignant setting and rich harmonic language of Francis Poulenc. Recital 1: “Songs of Love and Loss.” September 25, 2020, 7:30 pm, Westside United Methodist Church, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Mahour Arbabian, piano. Recital 2: “Tapas musicales: A ‘Spanish’ Song Recital.” February 20, 2021, 7:30 pm, Westside United Methodist Church, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Aleksandr Polyakov, piano. Recital 3: The sole role in the mono-opera La voix humaine by Francis Poulenc. March 7, 2021, The home of Dr. Louise Toppin, Yspilanti, Michigan. Mahour Arbabian, piano.