A Dynamic Duo – Art Songs and Arias with Gregory Scott Stuart and Joseph Yungen

On Wednesday, Feb. 12th, Professor Gregory Scott performed his recital Art Songs and Arias, accompanied by Dr. Joseph Yungen on piano. Art songs are lyrical poems turned into a musical piece, and arias are songs typically performed in an opera solo. Professor Stuart took to the stage with enthusiasm and held that throughout the performance. Professor Stuart captivated the audience, feeling the music, translating it into movements to help the audience understand the story through the music. Professor Stuart also sang in six different languages, switching from one to another between each set of songs except one. That one was performed in five different languages: Italian, German, Russian, Spanish, and French. Listening to him switch fluidly from language to language was magnificent.

Professor Stuart has an extensive career in the performance scene, having been in numerous plays, musicals, operas, and choirs. While this is Professor Stuart’s first solo performance at Frostburg State, he took it head-on and gave an amazing performance.

Dr. Yungen’s accompaniment was absolutely beautiful as he kept up with Professor Stuart’s energy, making this an amazing performance to watch. With their extensive backgrounds, it is no surprise how well these two work together on stage. Dr. Yungen has worked all around the United States as well as having performed in China as a guest artist. He has worked with many different singers and musicians, including those here at Frostburg State University, as well as having his own recitals and performances.   

Professor Stuart’s program ended its first half with Giuseppe Verdi, a famous Italian composer who wanted to unify Italy through music. Since most opera was not singable by those who attended operas, Bizet decided to write something that people could leave the opera house humming together, giving a sense of unity among Italians. Ending his first half with this piece had the audience humming the same tune, charming them, which had them returning to their seats after intermission. Professor Stuart ended his performance with Carmen, a well-known opera by those who are music fanatics and those who have less knowledge about music. This was a dynamic choice on Professor Stuart’s part, by ending the performance with a piece that was well-known, allowing the audience to leave on a note they knew. This paired with his delivery of every piece made it an unforgettable performance.