Maureen Forrester circa 1982: A Tribute

Toronto-based mezzo soprano Allyson McHardy is one of Canada's best known concert and opera singers, and we are excited to welcome her to Pontiac Enchanté for the first time, in partnership with pianist Carson Becke.   CLICK HERE to read more about Allyson.  In this evening of art song, Allyson and Carson celebrate and pay tribute to the legendary Canadian contralto Maureen Forrester with a recreation of an iconic program she released on record in 1982. The record featured Robert Schumann's Liederkreis Opus 39, containing some of his most exquisite miniatures for voice and piano, and The Confession Stone by Canadian composer Robert Fleming.  Fleming, who was born in Prince Albert (Saskatchewan) but spent much of his working life in Ottawa, wrote The Confession Stone for Forrester in 1966.  Following in Maureen Forrester's footsteps, Allyson McHardy is equally at home in dramatic roles in operas - she'll be playing the role of Fricka in Pacific Opera's production of Wagner's Die Walküre shortly before joining us at Pontiac Enchanté - and in the most delicate art song repertoire.  Don't miss this chance to hear one of Canada's most talented singers in our small, intimate venue.

Program:

Robert Schumann: Liederkreis (Song Cycle), op. 39          

Robert Fleming: The Confession Stone

A selection of other works TBC

Allyson McHardy, mezzo soprano

Carson Becke, piano