Like many, I've seen Linda several times in J&H, and in concerts. She possesses a wonderful "instrument" and has grown extremely popular with her fans. She IS a doll!
Belting is not that hard. Belting well IS. It can sound like a siren and many do! Belting requires balance and knowing when, how long and how often to choose to execute it that makes a difference It's the softer, jazzy, ballads, blues that are a challange for many singers, male and female.
Same as the "money" note, the one that everyone expects to hear at every concert. I wouldn't want to be known just for my belt or money note. If I were a performer, I'd focus on every aspect of performing and coach as often as needed, even after I was a hit!
I would like to see Linda explore a new style. Keep a few of the belting songs.
Vienna, A New Life and Gold are 3 of my favorite songs that best represent her soft and belting side.
Parade and LaMancha has proven it point.
I'll Be Seeing You is a fine example of how well she can sing a soft ballad.
As much as I enjoy her...she still has yet to capture the audience with her stage presence. And I think Linda is just not the type to be all over the stage or jesture like others. It's not her style and might be unnatural for her. But there are surely more ways "draw" the audience into your performance.
Without sound like a shill, Craig Schulman truly sings from the heart and reaches the heart of his audiences...and trust me he doesn't move around all that much. This is a learned talent, but it comes from within. I'm sure you can think of others.
Lea Salonga comes to mind also, just a polished performer in every respect; practically flawless delivery and vocals that showed every facet of her style, not to mention that she had the audience in her little hands for 2 hours. She even heaped praises upon Linda Eder several times. A classy little lady!
Anyway, I am so looking forward to seeing Linda at Lenape in Sept. and covering it for you all.
sorry to get so windy...off to work.
Pati. b
www.pbentertainmentinc.com
BWW regional writer "Philadelphia/South Jersey"
Updated On: 8/5/04 at 08:55 AM