Tenor, pianist take poetic license in several tongues

photo by Jenna Campbell

Tenor Jonathan Mack performed with pianist Timothy Durkovic, the music department’s artist in residence, Friday in Founders Auditorium as part of the Celebrity Concert Series. Mack, who sang songs including "My Beloved is Mine and I am His," and "Sail On, Sail On," has traveled throughout the United States, Europe and Australia as a recital, concert and opera singer.

by Amby Sarabia
Staff Writer

Soothing sounds of the piano were heard coming from Founders Auditorium Friday night, accompanied by strong vocals as tenor Jonathan Mack and pianist Timothy Durkovic entertained their audience.

Setting the mood for the night, the duo performed a series of 16 songs which were derived from poems written by Heinrich Hein.

While the songs were sung by Mack in a different language, the barrier did not interfere with holding the audiences interest.

“You can tell what he is saying through his expressions,” said Eva Hinojoza, a music transfer from East Los Angeles College.

Eager to see the two perform Bestie Evans drove from Arcadia to attend the concert. As a member of the choir at the Good Sheppard Methodist Church located in Arcadia, Evans was encouraged by her choir leader to watch Durkovic play.

“He is an excellent musician,“ she said. “I have been following him for at least a year.”

As a teacher at the University as well as at the church, Durkovic attracted many spectators.

“His performances are always good and he is so talented,” said Lola Malone, member of the church and long time follower of Durkovic.

Durkovic has performed as a soloist, in orchestras as well as with other musicians as was the case Friday night.

Mack, a lyric tenor who has performed with the Los Angeles Opera for 18 years, joined Durkovic on stage as he intrigued the audience with his expressions and one of a kind voice.

After performing the first 16 songs in German, Mack went on to sing nine more songs in English.

Audience members sat motionless watching in awe as the tenor sang his heart out.

Hinojoza was eager to see Mack perform as he once taught her current voice teacher, Carol Stevenson.

“He is just a wonderful performer,” Hinojoza said. “He never breaks character and he is so expressive in everything he does.”

Playing in tune with each other, the two musicians proved they were talented in their areas of music.

Dorkovic’s fingers were difficult to follow as they moved at a speed which was interesting to watch.

Mack was in his own world as his bellowing voice could be heard throughout the halls of Founders Hall.

“They were both so energetic and passionate,” Hinojoza said.