The feminine character: the balance between strength and charm

Abstract

This Master’s Report is in the form of extended program notes on works performed on a graduate recital for a mezzo-soprano. The notes include biographical information, and a literary and historical exploration of the piece selected, to discuss the overall theme of the feminine character as she appears in contrasting works. Translations of the texts are included in the body of the text. The pieces discussed are Debussy’s Trois Chansons de Bilitis, Rossini’s “Cruda Sorte!...Già so per practica” from L’Italiana in Algeri, selections from Wolf’s Spaniches Liederbuch, Massenet’s “Va! Laisse couler mes larmes” from Werther, Lori Laitman’s Daughters, Handel’s “In gentle murmurs will I mourn” from Jephtha, and Granados’s La maja dolorosa No. 1, 2, and 3. The graduate recital was given in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Music degree in vocal performance on March 29th, 2015 performed in All Faiths Chapel at Kansas State University. It featured the piano talents of Amanda Arrington, with the aid of Jillian Emerson on cello, Janice McGregor on violin, and Christopher Gugel on flute.