Calgary soprano Kathleen Morrison is returning to the stage with a full-length, classical vocal virtual concert.
Recorded at the Polaris Centre for the Performing Arts, a new performance venue just minutes east of Crossiron Mills, this pre-recorded concert will premiere on Saturday and stream for a week afterwards.
“We recorded the concert as if it was a live performance,” says Kathleen. “It felt great, and a little nerve-wracking performing as an actual concert. You might hear some moments that aren’t perfect, but it’s all part of a live concert. And of course I changed my dresses – and lighting! - for each set. The recording looks absolutely gorgeous and sounds incredible.”
Joined by pianists Bente Hansen and Mimi Park, mezzo-soprano Barbara King, and violinist Eva Toncheva, the programme includes opera arias and duets, and art song sets by Schubert and Richard Strauss.
“I’m thrilled to be able to perform with this group of supremely talented female musicians just a few days ahead of International Women’s Day,” says Kathleen. “I’m also excited about performing new pieces, including Ricard Strauss’ Morgen! Beloved by many sopranos, the opening with its long violin melody which is taken up by the soprano is just about perfect.”
With ever-changing rules and regulations, Kathleen has been preparing for this concert since July 2020. When asked about preparing a concert during the pandemic, she said it was not all bad.
“It took a lot of planning, patience, pivoting, and persistence, but I’m glad I’m performing. As I was working on this concert, I realized that the danger of this pandemic as an artist is feeling stuck, but there’s always something we could be doing. We have to continue performing and creating so there will be something people can come back to when this is over. We musicians have to make sure the arts are not slipping away. Even if people are not attending my concert, I think it’s important for them to know the music is still happening.”
Known for adding personal touches to all of her concerts, Kathleen said this concert is no exception.
“I’m making the concert more enjoyable by introducing each aria and song set. We’ll also have captions on everything so the audience will know exactly what I’m singing about. That was new for me, and I’m really excited about that feature! It’s going to be a really nice concert – looks stunning and sounds beautiful. It’ll be a night to escape – treat it as if you are there at Polaris with me.”
The Polaris Session with Kathleen Morrison will take place on Saturday, March 6th. Tickets are pay-what-you-want with a minimum of $15 for concert access and are available through www.kathleenmorrison.com.
Interview by ©Calgary Classical
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