Scottish mezzo-soprano Beth Taylor made a remarkable impression during the finals of the 2023 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition and has since established herself as a prominent interpreter of Handel’s works. Her inaugural solo album, thoughtfully assembled in collaboration with pianist Hamish Brown, features a compelling selection of art songs, culminating in an adventurous rendition of Elgar’s Sea Pictures.
Taylor possesses a voice that is easily recognizable. With a rich contralto foundation, her lower range is impressive, while her upper register unmistakably defines her as a mezzo-soprano. Her smooth legato, robust lower tones, and talent for storytelling shine in Schubert’s compositions, including Meeres Stille and the enchanting opening piece, Hamilton Harty’s arrangement of My Lagan Love. Her brilliant upper notes are showcased in the delicate musical sketches by Hedwige Chretien. Throughout the album, Brown proves to be a creative collaborator, adding imaginative depth even to the shortest pieces.
Chretien, who serves as a professor at the Paris Conservatoire, is one of the lesser-known composers featured on this album. Taylor successfully advocates for Ethel Smyth’s contemplative Three Moods of the Sea and Harty’s poignant Sea Wrack. Additionally, Cameron Biles-Liddell’s radiant composition, The Breakers, was specifically created for Taylor, adding another highlight to the album.
In her interpretation of the Elgar pieces, enhanced by Brown’s piano accompaniments, Taylor conveys a wealth of expressive nuances and palpable emotion. Her interpretation of In Haven showcases a beautiful lilt, while her dynamic approach to The Swimmer reveals an intense energy. These thoughtful performances stand up well alongside the classic renditions by celebrated artists such as Janet Baker and Sarah Connolly.
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