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Purcell, Brahms, Britten, Duparc, Welsh Traditional and Rachmaninov: Natalya Romaniw (soprano) Simon Lepper (piano)  St David’s Hall, Cardiff 3.4.2004 (MS)


She may still be at college but the audience member who commented to his partner as they left the auditorium ‘there’s something special about her’ was spot on. While no stranger to the concert stage, this was Natalya’s recital debut at St David’s Hall where she will compete in BBC Cardiff Singer of the World in June.

This was an elegant, wide ranging and cleverly structured concert that displayed Natalya’s prowess in repertoire as far ranging as Purcell’s Sweeter than Roses, I attempt from loves sickness and Sawney was a bonney lad (varied in themselves) to O never sing to me again, How fair this spot and Harvest of Sorrow from Rachaminov.

Along the way we also had Britten’s Salley Gardens, O Waly Waly and the jaunty Oliver Cromwell as well as a healthy dose of Welsh songs; Mae Hiraeth Yn Y Mor, Gwynfyd and Ynys Y Plant.

I mention the Rachminov in particular as it was this remarkably powerful and beautiful closing section of the programme that also drew comments of praise from the savvy St David’s Hall recital audiences.

Displaying once again a versatility of language as well as musical genre Natalya delved into the German and French repertoire with Brahms’ Wie Melodien, Abendregen and Verqebliches Standchen while from Duparc we had the gentle Chanson Triste followed by L'invitation au Voyage.

Natalya has an interesting air on the stage, able to switch effortlessly from the jocular and light to the dramatic and emotional. While naturally a sprightly character with a cheeky glint to her eyes, which is evident in these lighter, fun songs, she also has the gravitas and intensity that defies her young years.

Her chemistry with accompanist Simon Lepper who also accompanies some of the singers in the Rosenblatt Recital Song Prize which runs alongside the operatic competition is palpable.

What will she chose from this programme to impress the judges in June? It was clear what the audience felt about one composer she should include. We will have to wait to June to find out.

Mike Smith

BBC Cardiff Singer of the World, June 7 to 14, St David's Hall, Cardiff Tel: +44 (0)29 2087 8444. stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk. 

Rosenblatt Recital Song Prize and Master Classes, June 6 to 12, New Theatre and St David’s Hall (final), Cardiff Tel: +44 (0) 29 2087 8889. newtheatrecardiff.co.uk


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