February 2000 | Out in the Mountains |27

 

e’s been called America’s preeminent performer of classical

song repertoire, an art-song singer of unusual versatility, and

an artist with a rare feeling for the beauty of words and
music.

He’s been praised for his unusual versatility, easily produced
and mellifluous voice, gorgeous, authoritative delivery and rare
feeling for the beauty of words and music.

Perhaps most importantly for Vermont fans of classical song,
Sanford Sylvan is bringing those talents to the state this winter.

In two performances, one a benefit for Vermont CARES, the
Grammy—winning baritone will be performing The Glass Hammer,
a song cycle by acclaimed Vermont composer Jorge Martin based
upon the poems of Andrew Hudgins. The program will also feature
works by Ravel and Debussy.

‘  » — Sylvan is well known as a Mozartean

performer. Viewers of PBS’ Great ...,_,-.:'.;.
Performances may well remember his '
portrayals of Figaro in Le nozze di
Figaro and Don Alfonso in Cosi fan
tutte; his performances in the role of '
Don Giovanni’s Leoprello at the
Glyndeboume Festival and with New
York City Opera have also been critical-
ly acclaimed. He has regularly per-
formed at the Carmel Bach Festival,
pushing the envelope with breathtaking
phrasing and delivery.

His work in modern opera has
included parts written expressly for him
by composers such as John Adams and
John Harbison. It was for his role as
Chou En-lai in Adams’ Nixon in China
that he garnered both Grammy and
Emmy awards, but his performances in The Wound Dresser, The
Death of Klinghofler, Four Saints in Three Acts and The Ice Break

  

SYLVAEI 2'» P32