Review: Gabriel Preisser glows in triumph

Gabriel Preisser has an excellent baritone voice that he uses with skillful excellence.

Preisser opened his concert Oct. 10, 2013 in Rollins College’s Tiedtke Hall with a very slow rendition of Henry Purcell’s “Music For A While,” followed by that composer’s “If Music Be The Food Of Love,” and “Sweeter Than Roses.” These Purcell songs immediately demonstrated Preisser’s compelling sound and agile coloratura.

Four favorite Richard Strauss songs, all of which, coincidentally, I used to sing in concert, were pleasing events whose vocal passion was reflected not only in the singer, but in the remarkable piano accompaniments of Edward Rothmel.

The French language received melodious attention in Maurice Ravel’s “Don Quichotte à Dulcinée,” which gave the singer opportunity to expand his acting talents.

After intermission came three of today’s now-neglected Paolo Tosti songs. The singer’s even production and flowing breath enhanced his impressive vocal artistry. I especially relished “L’alba Separa Dalla Luce L’ombra. ”

Three Samuel Barber songs and three Broadway songs brought the program to a close with the audience on its feet giving the artists a well-deserved standing ovation.

This commentator was happy to see the large number of enthusiastic younger people in the highly appreciative crowd.