Composer: Various
Works: Selections from Broadway musicals including “South Pacific,” “My Fair Lady,” “The Sound of Music,” and others.
Performers: Bryn Terfel (Baritone), Chorus of Opera North, English Northern Philharmonia / Paul Daniel (Conductor)
Recording: Deutsche Grammophon 471 425-2 [76.52]
Label: Deutsche Grammophon
Bryn Terfel’s “Some Enchanted Evening” compiles a selection of classic songs from the American musical theatre repertoire, a genre rich with emotional depth and cultural significance. The works span the mid-20th century, showcasing composers such as Rodgers, Loewe, and Berlin, who defined the soundscape of Broadway. This album, while ambitious in its scope, raises compelling questions about the intersection of operatic technique and the lighter, more conversational style required for musical theatre.
The opening track, “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning,” sets the tone with Terfel’s lush baritone, though one might question the interpretive depth he brings to this iconic number. While his voice is undeniably beautiful, there are moments when it feels as though the emotional nuances are merely touched upon rather than fully explored. For instance, the rhythmic inflections that can breathe life into phrases—so deftly navigated by performers like Mandy Patinkin—are often absent here, leading to a performance that skims the surface rather than delving into the rich emotional undercurrents of the text.
Terfel’s interpretation choices are further highlighted in “I Have Dreamed,” where he indulges in prolonged notes that, while technically impressive, detract from the overarching line of the melody. This echoes a larger trend throughout the album where vocal choices lean towards what might be termed “microphone singing”—a technique that, while effective in moderation, becomes monotonous in its overuse. The balance between lyrical expression and vocal technique seems skewed, shifting the focus away from the narrative and emotional content of the songs.
Sound quality and engineering, hallmarks of Deutsche Grammophon’s meticulous production, are commendable. The clarity of the ensemble and the lushness of the orchestration are well captured, creating a warm ambiance that complements Terfel’s voice. Yet, even with such high production values, the overall effect can still feel enervating, as if the vibrant energy of the material has been dulled through overly cautious interpretation.
Comparisons inevitably arise with previous renditions of these beloved classics. One cannot help but recall José Carreras’s spirited contributions to this repertoire, where his enthusiasm and engagement with the lyrical content brought an infectious vitality that Terfel’s performances sometimes lack. Similarly, the raw sincerity found in recordings by performers like Sarah Vaughan injects an authenticity that feels absent here.
The conclusion drawn from this collection is that while Bryn Terfel possesses a voice of extraordinary beauty, the interpretative choices made throughout “Some Enchanted Evening” lead to a performance that, at times, feels detached from the very essence of the material. The songs demand an engagement that transcends mere technical execution, and in this regard, Terfel’s offerings may leave some listeners yearning for the more visceral connection found in other interpretations. The album may resonate with those who appreciate his vocal artistry for its own sake, but for those seeking the deeper emotional truths embedded within these timeless works, the experience could feel disappointingly shallow.
