By Avril Rowland
“Der Taucher”, translating to “The Diver”, is a turbulent ballad written by German composer Franz Schubert in 1797. The piece tells the story of a squire who risks his life in pursuit of a golden goblet his king throws into a raging ocean, only to fatally attempt to repeat the trial when his king offers an even greater reward if he can retrieve the goblet again. The featured rendition is performed by baritone Tyler Duncan and pianist Erika Switzer, who expertly guide us through the treacherous highs and lows of the squire’s story.
Duncan’s regal voice lends itself easily to the grand tale, heightening the ballad to an epic triumph and tragedy. Switzer controls the pace of the song, handling the many shifts in speed and tone without stumbling, keeping the ballad natural and connected. Together, the duo make the listener feel as if they are a member of the royal court, enjoying a performance fit for a king. You can tell both performers are savoring the music, and it’s hard not to do the same when the music sounds this good.
Duncan and Switzer’s rendition of “Der Taucher” is expertly performed. The changes in tone and tempo are sudden, but never jarring, and neither performer falters at any turn. I give this performance five out of five stars.
Avril is a senior majoring in writing at the Savannah College of Art and Design. She aims to have a career publishing her writing one day.
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