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BALTIMORE CONSORT ENCHANTS WITH SPANISH CONCERT

David Vernier

Alumni Recital Hall, Keene State College, Keene, NH

November 14, 2007, Keene, NH— The Baltimore Consort, whose last appearance at this venue was in December, 1999, received a warm welcome back from an enthusiastic audience at this evening’s concert, an all-Spanish program featuring young, golden-voiced Brazilian countertenor José Lemos along with this revered ensemble’s trademark instrumental virtuosity and clever, artful arrangements. The arrangements of the songs and dances—in this case, repertoire drawn from various Spanish sources during the time of Columbus’ voyages to the New World—are certainly designed to entertain, but they also highlight the beauty of melodies and texts as well as the individual character and timbre of the Consort’s fascinating array of instruments, from all manner of flutes and the reedy, nasally crumhorns, to viols, guitars, lute, recorder, and percussion. Most of the ensemble members play several instruments, and it’s a treat to watch the well-choreographed switches from vihuela to viol to recorder to percussion while the music flows from song to dance to song without a hitch. Mark Cudek is especially interesting to keep an eye on, whether plucking a viol guitar-style or making a simple tambourine do things that you’d swear required at least two pairs of hands.

Besides all the impressive performances, it was the sheer loveliness of the songs that most deeply moved the audience—and in this regard, countertenor Lemos was nothing less than a joy, both to hear and to watch. His performances were infectious and musically flawless, his presence immediately engaging, his command of the music total and natural. He was aided by partners who both supported and inspired him, whether encouraging an extra-playful turn of phrase or an exceptionally heartfelt romantic expression. This was concertizing as it’s meant to be—a group of charismatic performers bringing their well-practiced, well-chosen program to an eager audience.

And any experienced observer would have to say that few if any early-music/period-instrument groups have anywhere near this much fun on stage while delivering such high-class performances. These people obviously like each other and the physical interaction as they play—the intense eye contact, the back-and-forth, playful “sparring”, the smiles, the occasional funny comment while one person is trying to tune, the unerring communication as the players move seamlessly from piece to piece—this is the rare and magical result of long hours, days, and years of working together.

For the audience this concert had it all: the highest standard of performance, instantly appealing repertoire, spontaneity, humor, and the joy of watching seasoned artists (you know, they have the music in front of them but never look at it) do what they absolutely love doing. If you have the chance to join the Baltimore Consort on their current tour, by all means, don’t miss it. Sure, there are lots of other things you could be doing, but none of them will seem quite so urgent or important after you hear this!

David Vernier

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