Katherine Goforth Voice: Cabaret Songs
where would we be without defeatAmerican vocalist Katherine Goforth is the recipient of Washington National Opera’s inaugural True Voice Award for transgender and nonbinary singers. Praised for her “vocal beauty” (New York Times) and “thrilling tenor power” (Opera News), Goforth has established herself as an accomplished recital singer, showcasing her artistry in prestigious programs such as the Franz-Schubert-Institut, Britten-Pears Young Artist Programme, Heidelberger Frühling Liedakademie, and the Georg Solti Accademia.
Where Would We Be Without Defeat
This performance features voice, piano, and recorded audio, showcasing music from the Weimar Republic, with works by Mahler, Schoenberg, Berg, Weill, Eisler, and others. Through evocative depictions of female figures in these early 20th-century compositions, the program draws compelling parallels between the composers' era and contemporary issues, offering a powerful exploration of identity, expression, and societal change. Pianist Claire Forstman will accompany Katherine Goforth on the Studio stage.
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Program
Franz Grothe Nur auf die Minute
Wolf Biermann Der Hugonottenfriedhof
Arnold Schoenberg Mondestrunken
Arnold Schoenberg Colombine
Kurt Weill Pride
Arnold Schoenberg Eine blasse Wäscherin
Frank Wedekind Ilse
Kurt Weill Alabama Song
Alban Berg Lied der Lulu
Arnold Schoenberg Rote Messe
Kurt Weill Pirate Jenny
Hanns Eisler Die Ballade vom Wasserrad
Kurt Weill Youkali
Friedrich Hollaender Wenn ick mal tot bin
Kurt Weill Alabama Song (reprise)
Gustav Mahler Urlicht
Ton Steine Scherben Macht kaputt was Euch kaputt macht / Hanns Eisler Das Einheitsfrontlied
