What a wonderful interview. Lovely to see Dame Janet looking so beautiful and as astute as ever. I followed her in UK before coming to Africa. Her words and understanding about loss were so poignant for me having lost my teenage son, a brilliant pianist and then my 18 year old pianist/oboist/singer daughter and husband within a week of eachother. It has been music that has remained a constant in my life and kept me going. Joyce, looking marvellous conducted the interview perfectly. It touched my soul. Thank-you and stay safe x
"Divine" really fits for wonderful mezzo Dame Janet. Her voice, her interpretations have been accompanying my whole life, they have been the reference recordings for me.
Ich bin der welt abhanden gekommen describes the loneliness of the artist, the way we musicians will always be at odds with the world. But we have our music - which is our greatest, and most faithful companion.
The Mahler is truly my most favorite of the Lieder. I worked on it, I loved singing it, and it was a huge source of frustration for me because I could never sing it the way I felt it in my soul. Loved, loved, loved this discussion! Thank you so much. It is the eve before the election in the US, and I truly needed something uplifting.
I didn't think I could live Janet Baker more than I already did, and then I watched this. I write with tears in my eyes as I thank you for this beautiful conversation.
Fascinating conversation. I took a screenshot of Joyce’s Troyens concert performance - her facial expression during the Adieu, right after the moment when the phrases of the love duet return......it said everything about Didon. The love, hate, sorrow, remembrance, resignation. It was all there on her face in that one moment.
what a memorable interview, kind, respectful, generous sharing of such incredible musical expertise and understanding between two splendid and talented women. You sent love to each other - we all send love to you both for being who you are. Sue O'Sullivan
Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen is the greatest of all lieder. It's the work of a true and rare genius. There are two performances that I love. Dame Janet's and Thomas Hampson with the Wiener Philharmoniker and Leonard Bernstein.
Joyce, How is Mr. Shelley doing? Well, I just got the the point wherein you mentioned his passing. May he Rest In Peace. Do you happen to have an obituary for Mr. Shelley? I cannot seem to find one.