PALACE THEATRE
MANCHESTER, NH
MARCH 8, 2006
It's tough to come up with new superlatives for 3 men who already reside at
the top. As Finbar said at the beginning, and Anthony reiterated at the end,
they ARE The Irish Tenors. Make no mistake about it. There were some really
wonderful moments at last night's concert at the Palace Theatre. Finbar's jaunty,
animated version of "Little Brigid Flynn" had many ladies in the audience
wishing to take her place, if she didn't "throw an eye to him." "Maggie" was the
best I've heard him sing it. And "Forty Shades of Green" was brilliantly done,
and a fitting tribute to Johnny Cash, in this year of the Oscar-nominated homage
to Johnny and June Carter Cash. Anthony's "The West's Awake" was proudly,
and thrillingly sung, with a spectacular top C at the end, and the audience
cheered him loudly. He's still coming into his own, with "Scorn Not His Simplicity",
and once he's put his stamp on it, it will be memorable. John was in marvelous
voice, and embodied all the qualities which make him such an asset to the group.
His rich baritone was smooth as silk, and he lent great support in trios such as
"Fields of Athenry", a personal favorite. Of course no one can sing "The Old Man"
like John, and his "Legacy" was especially moving. It never fails to send chills up
my spine when he asks the veterans in the audience to stand so we can show
them our support. A new song in the concert was "Shenandoah", which was
gorgeously done. If John McDermott has not studied singing, then he comes by
his lovely legato line and smooth vocal production, naturally. It was, as I told John,
to die for. Of course, with Anthony Kearns and Finbar Wright at his side, he
couldn't have much better teachers. When the lights dim and Arnie Roth strides
out to the podium, it's my first clue that it will be a good night. There has been talk
in previous reports, about the quality of the orchestras, and how hard Arnie was
working to keep them in shape. Well, last night he didn't have to work so hard.
The orchestra at The Palace Theatre was the best I've heard in the last several
Tenor concerts. Their tone was lovely, and the concertmaster was especially
good. The Fantasy on Brian Boru, and O'Carolan's Overture were just marvelous.
And as always, the Tenors benefit from Arnie's musical support.
Once again, Sean Casey of CMI Entertainment arranged a Meet & Greet after
the show, and the men seemed in good humor, and were very gracious. They
posed for pictures, and signed anything that was put in front of them.
As any Irish Tenor fan knows, one concert only whets your appetite for more.
So I'm looking forward to Friday night, in Waterbury, for the next performance.
Berta Calechman
