Last night, my wife and I saw a performance by the Irish singer Lisa Hannigan here in Washington DC. It was simply put the greatest vocal performance I've ever witnessed and that includes the likes of Kathleen Battle, Jessye Norman, and many other famous singers. We were both truly stunned.
In fact, when I looked at my wife after the very opening song she exhaled as if she had been holding her breath the entire time. I then realized that I too had been almost scared to breathe. The music was so ethereal and the message of the song so piercing that to interrupt it with even a breath seemed inappropriate. The beauty, resonance, and character of Lisa's voice is impossible for me to put into words. There is a stunning innocence with a simultaneous grit that takes your breath away.
The worst note ending of her performance was quite possibly better than the best I've ever played in my career. Every note was hand delivered to the next with an attention to detail left the audience speechless. I was a better musician by the end of the evening, simply by being present. It was a master class in every sense of the word.
When people say there is no money in music I can't completely agree. When you sing or play an instrument to the level of Lisa Hannigan you will make a living performing. Period. I do not know of a single exception. She is a breathtaking talent that you should see perform at all costs. Below is a clip from the wonderful Tiny Desk Concert series from NPR. I think you will hear what I mean in the very first tune.
Enjoy!
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-B_fkZfWjk]