Roy Thomson Hall – Nicole Cabell, soprano with Spencer Myer, piano

reviewed by Paula Citron
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Nicole Cabell, soprano
Spencer Myer, piano
Vocal Series
Roy Thomson Hall
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American soprano Nicole Cabell is really making a name for herself these days, and richly deserved the standing ovation she received at the end of her Roy Thomson Hall recital. I was lucky enough to catch an early opera performance at Spoleto several years ago, and it was wonderful to see her promise taking fruit.

The lyric soprano displayed a smoky quality that gave more character to the voice than is usually found in her fach. The shades of darkness added a richness, and given her expressive singing, made the song texts come alive. By the time she had finished her three encores, Cabell had sung in six languages, but her English diction does need improving, especially in the middle of lines.

Accompanist Spencer Myer is a solo pianist in his own right, and brought that sensibility to his playing. He is a master of empathy for the singer, but maintained the piano as an individual instrument.

The concert was an utter joy.