Mercer’s Townsend School of Music will host a faculty artist recital featuring soprano Dr. Martha Malone in Fickling Hall Nov. 19. Malone has entitled the performance “Melodies of Mayhem.”
Malone, who has been a part of the Mercer staff for over 20 years, will be performing in a cabaret style. This theme gives a less formal approach to the musical art form, she said.
“I call it ‘Melodies of Mayhem’ because . . . I always put in some kind of popular song [when I do a cabaret],” Malone said. “We have love songs, we have satire, we have silliness, and we have beautiful love songs.”
Malone will be accompanied by Byron Grant, a pianist and distinguished musical theater expert. Grant is also a retired educator from Webster University and native of Central Georgia.
“He’s a wonderful musician and wonderful artist in this field of cabaret musical theatre, so we got to know each other and decided it would be fun to collaborate,” Malone said.
Faculty members and students of the Townsend School of Music are also looking forward to the recital.
“It’s something that the general public enjoys, and it’s usually full, so people will come and get there early,” said soprano professor Marie Jarriel Roberts.
Graduate student Judith Destine, who has never attended one of Malone’s recitals previously, is excited to hear Malone’s work outside of the studio. “I’m looking forward to it because I get to see the performance side of my teacher, so that will be kind of interesting,” Destine said.
While Malone said there are several songs she has lined up, the evening will have an element of surprise. Many of the songs she is planning to perform have a satirical edge, and the night will include elements of stand-up comedy.
“I like to have the interaction with the audience… we always have a good time,” Malone said.
“I like to perform in music theatre as well as classical music, so this gives me a chance to [extend] my interests.”
For more information on “Melodies of Mayhem,” visit the Townsend School of Music’s website at music.mercer.edu.
“Mayhem” to ensue at upcoming faculty artist recital
Dr. Martha Malone is the Chair of Vocal Studies and the Director of Opera of the Townsend School of Music.
