Undervalued Performance

Hearing an artist, particularly a megastar of the magnitude of Placido Domingo, generates a unique excitement and empathy between audience and singer that can only be felt in the opera house. The “vibes” transmitted by the Domingo tenor are like none other of the genre. For the past decade, Domingo has graced us with torrents of golden sound that are firmly focused and are built upon a technique buttressed by sound musicianship. His lengthy recital, a benefit for Opera Pacific at the Orange County Performing Arts Center, was a tour de force in both diversity of material and vocal execution.

Granted, an artist in recital can be perceived and evaluated differently by different ears but I feel that Chris Pasles’ Jan. 14 review (“Domingo Headlines Benefit at Performing Arts Center”) strayed far from the mark. I’m in agreement with his characterization of the Domingo voice as “rich, warm and well oiled” but I’m in substantial disagreement regarding “constriction in reaching the heights.” My ears were enriched by stentorian top tones, a smooth legato line, projection of a gamut of emotions, and excellent tonal coloring. Verdi, Donizetti and Puccini were well served by his work. Forte, pianissimo and mezza voce revealed supple elegance. Domingo’s arias, duets and scenas with Panagulias were delivered with elan!

FRANK R. WYNNE

Los Alamitos