Search - Gerald Finley, Robert Schumann, Julius Drake :: Schumann: Dichterliebe & other Heine Settings

A mesmerizing performance full of subtlety

D. Lee Edwards | Los Angeles, CA USA | 03/05/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an exemplary performance. Julius Drake takes ample time setting the mood of each song. Gerald Finley uses his beautiful baritone voice to great effect, interpreting the text with an honest sounding approach. There is great sensitivity in his singing which I find very satisfying. Among recent recordings of this quintessential German song cycle my preference is just slightly in favor of Simon Keenlyside and Malcolm Martineau's recording which carries more intensity and a more authentic-sounding German diction. There is a bit more energy and spirit in Keenlyside's interpretation. But that is not to detract from the pleasures of this performance which is very fine. I think Keenlyside is the more intense singing actor in lieder with more contrast and variety in his moods. Finley adds some unique touches such at the end of "Und wüssten's die Blumen" a sneer in the voice on the words "Sie hat ja selbst zerrissen, Zerrissen mir das Herz" (It was she who broke my heart in two). Also the playful use of words and accents in "Ein Jüngling liebt ein Mädchen" is most appropriate. I find Drake's piano playing absolutely top notch. He articulates the rhythm of each song with such complete confidence and mastery; better, perhaps even than Martineau. He is unafraid to stretch the limits of tempi and dynamics. What I find really striking in this performance is the strong sense of melancholy throughout."

Exceptional

Beverly D. Pierce | 03/20/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Once again, the golden voice of this incredible man speaks to my very soul. I've always been partial to the tenor voice, but this rich baritone is superior to most tenors I've heard. One tends to think of the baritone in the role of the bad guy. I see Mr. Finley as the romantic hero. The talent, the looks..a perfect combination!! The the piano artistry of Julius Drake compliments the Gerald Finley voice in a magnificent way. I hope these two continue performing together."