On August 12th the City Art Gallery of Varna was the venue for an amazing recital by American soprano Claron McFadden and her pianist Mike Del Ferro – “The Voice of America in the 20th Century” – featuring some of the most influential contemporary American composers. The diverse program, which ranged from gospel songs, George Gershwin and Duke Ellington to the modern John Cage and Steve Reich, surprised and delighted the audience. During the concert the musical scores of some of contemporary works like Stripsody by Kathy Barberian and Aria by John Cage the were projected on a screen. Soprano Claron McFadden, who was a true force of nature, enchanted and provoked the listeners with unexpected musical twists, with her uncommon sense of humor and by cajoling the audience to join in the singing during the concert. Mike Del Ferro was also wonderful – a sensitive pianist who managed to channel the singer’s energy with great finesse. The audience of the avant-garde RADAR festival, which is taking place for a third year, was truly captivated by the innovative approaches of the American duo.
