In addition, the PAHS Chamber Orchestra gave a delightful concert within a concert as it performed a prelude and an intermezzo featuring many incidental works with character in accord with the evening's main theme: Irish expressions. Even the orchestral works by Bach, Gliere, Brahms, and a very sweet French pavane "sang" with the splendor of Ireland.
Mr. Kearns sang a gamut of Irish tunes and universal sensitivities. His programming inspired listeners to heights of appreciation with beauty and power strongly suggesting connections between quality song and the peoples of the world. In addition to songs of human need -- especially love, loss, kindness, friendship, and humor -- sensitive and insightful comments from both Mr. Kearns and Mr. Healy strengthened the connection between the audience and these great human values.
The significance of the evening's musical statements was given rich conviction through the power and expressiveness in the voice of Mr. Kearns. Conviction is an elusive dimension for many singers, as they simply render pitches, rhythms, and lyrics of otherwise beautiful songs. When Mr. Kearns sings, he crafts a depth of sincerity, belief, a spiritual nature --conviction -- into each expression, making each work ever richer in its significance and aesthetics, both spiritual and physical.
With remarkable high range intensity, "Because" and "Dein ist mein ganzes Hertz" physically elevated listeners, clearly showing promise of Mr. Kearns's imminent recognition among the next generation of the world's greatest tenors. The aria from TOSCA was unsurpassable! To be viewed not only as a 'barn burner' with big lungs and a powerful high range, Mr. Kearns seduced hearts with bucolic memories and sweetness as his voice rose high again, but now attenuating without loosing richness, into very elegant expressions: "The Rose of Tralee," "Little Gray Home of the West," "As I Sit Here (Remembering You)," and "We'll Gather Lilacs in the Spring."
His return to Port Angeles is already being strongly anticipated. Line up soon for your ticket to further amazement. Let's not stand surprised, however, if we see him sooner on international television.