ArtsWatch Reviews Venice In The East

Bruce Browne reviewed Cappella Romana’s Saturday, April 28, 2018 performance of Venice in the East for Oregon ArtsWatch:

Present were exquisite moments of choral artistry, impeccable tuning, bravura singing by all and thoughtful phrasing, especially by John Michael Boyer and Mark Powell, who together stood at the pinnacle of the solo work, especially many of the delicious priestly intonations.…

The theme of this concert, Venice in the East, has historical appeal. Dr. Lingas presented a musical perspective of the close ties of Venice to Greece, particularly in Crete, beginning in the sixth century. The sharing of religious traditions – liturgy, ritual and music – was palpable in chant, embellishments and in text. …

In the first half, Photini Downie Robinson and Kerry McCarthy matched their voices in dissonant ecstasy in their duet “Cum autem venissent” (But when they came to the place) from the Liber Sacerdotalis. In the following pieces, listening to all the vivid ornaments, generated overtones, modal inflections, and multi hued colors was like watching a synchronized swimming team. …

The quality of scholarship and historic authenticity is a hallmark of Cappella Romana’s 27-year history.

They set a high bar in this regard and succeed…this concert was an indication of why the choir and Dr. Lingas are known and respected around the world.”