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Stephanie Blythe Begins Extended Stay at CMS

The superb mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe is playing an important role in CMS’ 2007-08 season. In addition to concert performances in New York, she led a recent master class, takes part in a special symposium, and tours a new work to CMS’ series at Drew University in Madison, NJ. She joins close collaborators pianist Warren Jones and composer Alan Louis Smith in providing listeners with the kind of deep and enriched experiences that are the bedrock of the CMS mission.

Blythe, Jones, and Smith helped kick off CMS’ season with a moving presentation of Vignettes: Ellis Island in September. Based on the recollections of immigrants’ fears, hopes, and imaginings, the piece allowed Ms. Blythe to do what she does magnificently… embody the experience about which she is singing, and make it absolutely real to listeners.

That philosophy was in evidence in the master class she presented at CMS on February 14. Six young singers from various New York conservatories were coached by the incomparable Ms. Blythe on American art songs. The packed room listened with rapt attention as soprano Emalie Savoy was urged by Ms. Blythe to make the emotions expressed in Stephen Foster’s Gentle Annie real… and nearly was left in tears as Ms. Savoy delivered in a subtle and touching rendition.

The upcoming week brings multiple opportunities to hear the brilliant mezzo-soprano. On Tuesday, February 19, she, Jones, and Smith join CMS Artistic Director Wu Han at a special symposium that explores the work of the week, Vignettes: Covered Wagon Woman. Based on the diaries of pioneer woman Margaret Ann Alsip Frink, this work by Smith receives its World Premiere in the culminating concerts of the Winter Festival, American Voices. It promises to be a memorable and moving experience. Tickets are still available for the concerts on Friday, February 22 and Sunday, February 24.

Press Relations

For Press related inquiries, members of the media should contact Marlisa Monroe by email.