There are people who shy away from classical music, thinking that they do not know or understand enough to go to a "real" concert in a real concert hall. An opera is simply out of the question for such people. Often too there are people that have not got the time or opportunity for a full length opera. For these people a concert in a comfortable and familiar setting is ideal. The German Canadian Club Hansa has offered such concerts for a few years now and Walter Kornelson has produced and narrated the last few in the club, with William Shokoloff of Phantom of the Opera fame as musical director and accompanist.

The crowd is becoming familiar with a few of the singers that have performed repeatedly in this venue, such as Wendy Dobson, who delights not only with her fine soprano voice, but also with her chameleon appearances, always looking a bit different with every song, and good comedic timing and acting talent.

Sarah Hallyburton added drama to the concert with her clear and strong soprano voice suitable for all the big and juicy opera arias.

Douglas Tranquada is becoming another favourite in the Hansa House. His full, well rounded baritone voice pleases everyone, and his personable stylings are memorable. He is very much at ease on the stage and a consummate professional.

Tenor Leonard Whiting was new to the listeners and unfortunately not as well rehearsed as the other singers. Perhaps he jumped in at the last minute.

Audience participation

There is one thing about singing in a hall like this: Performers do not have the same opportunities to warm up their voices as they do in a completely professional setting that is built for such purposes. Were they to sing their voices warm before the concert with scales and such, no doubt the assembled people who are having dinner in the club would not enjoy it. Thus it sometimes takes a while for some singers to be in full voice during a concert like this. Once they are all is well and even very discerning ears will have nothing but good reviews.

Solos

The program that lovely afternoon in the club was varied and full with audience favourites from the lighter classical genre as well as the big operas like Tosca, Turandot and Tannhaeuser.

Duets

Walter Kornelson led through the program with a lot of insight and interesting stories about the composers and their music. There was much to be learned that afternoon, and many a listener grew more familiar and comfortable with the classics.

Ensemble

The concert also attracted members from outside its own membership. There were even guests from the Russian community. Hopefully this is now a tradition in the Hansa Club that will grow more audiences for this beautiful music.

Standing ovation Congratulations & Flowers

• Hansa Goes Classic

• Via Salzburg: Quickening Breath