Sure, they were calling it “Simply the Best,” but how entertaining could a group of about 40 people be while singing songs? Wouldn’t they just be standing there belting out tune after tune after tune? Same old same old? Wouldn’t
Sure, they were calling it “Simply the Best,” but how entertaining could a group of about 40 people be while singing songs? Wouldn’t they just be standing there belting out tune after tune after tune? Same old same old? Wouldn’t that get a little boring after a while? Wouldn’t many of us in the audience nod off?
Turns out, not at all.
Kauai Voices, as advertised, simply was the best when it performed songs from its first nine season in three performances, one each on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church.
Directed by the animated and energetic Randy Leonard, Kauai Voices is an audition-based vocal ensemble. While these folks certainly sing well together as group, the solos and duets shined, too. It was a showcase of incredible talent that one might not expect from a small community singing group.
From the opening number, “Tshotsoloza” to “You Raise Me Up” to “Shenandoah” to “Taylor the Latte Boy,” each piece was inspiring, enjoyable and even mesmerizing. The duet of Bud Soria and Stacy Ramos was pitch perfect as they sang, “You’re All Need To Get By.” Laralei Woodward brought down the house when she sang, “I Will Always Love You.” And “Cell Block Tango” by Michelle Blake, Dottie Bekeart, Ramos, Liz Hahn, Karen Firl and Melissa Mojo was as much fun to watch as it was to hear.
After intermission, Kauai Voices opened with “Down in the River to Pray,” and from the moment they walked in and took the stage, they nailed it. Many in the crowd were singing along, as they were throughout the show. Couldn’t help but want to join in.
This was really just a blast.
Kauai Voices was backed up by talented musicians, Ron Margolis on percussion, Paul Koulbanis on guitar, Trysten Caberto on bass, David Braun and Steve Dubey on trumpet, and Laine Griffith on flute, clarinet, alto sax and tenor sax.
What came through, beyond the tenors, altos, sopranos and bass voices, was the passion that Kauai Voices puts into each performance. They are not going through the motions. They sang nearly 30 songs each night over three days, and with each song, it was like they were singing it for the president of the United States. There were smiles and laughter and a whole lot of beautiful people making beautiful music. They deserved the standing ovation they received at night’s end.
If you missed this performance, you’re in luck, because Kauai Voices will be back. Season 11, with the theme, “Ain’t That Great Music!” is scheduled June 17 and 18.
Even better, if you want to try out, auditions will be held next month, by appointment.
Info: Randy Leonard, (808) 635-9009
