Review: Samuel Barber's "Knoxville: Summer of 1915"

"Her clear, warm, beautiful voice nicely projected the sentimental longing that Agee’s text expresses."

- W. Gerald Cochran, FOCUS

It was amazing to be able to perform Barber's "Knoxville: Summer of 1915" with the Western Piedmont Symphony last weekend. Barber's piece and Agee's text so perfectly capture fundamental aspects of the southern experience--cicadas, rocking chairs, and ice cream--alongside that peculiar mix of wonder, contentment, and uncertainty unique to childhood.

Not only was it an honor to sing with the WPS, but it was so touching to be singing from the stage of my Alma Mater, Lenoir-Rhyne University. I was able to connect with so many friends, family, and professors during my all-too-brief visit.

For the full review of March 7's program, "Southern Sounds," click here.