Young singer, incredible talent

Exhilarating! Incredible! Sublime! And just plain "Wow!" There are not enough superlatives in the English language to adequately describe the vocal treat that many area residents had the opportunity to witness Sunday afternoon in the recital given by Paige Kiefner. Schubert, Puccini, Faure, Bernstein -- Miss Kiefner superbly conquered arias by these masters and more in a recital worthy of a professional in her 20s, not a junior in high school. Her beautiful voice and God-given talent was matched by a poised assurance and demeanor that ensures her success in the operatic career she intends to pursue.

Kudos goes to Paige's accompanist, Dr. John Shelton, and to Paige's teacher and mentor, Judith Farris, for her expertise in nurturing this future talent to stratospheric heights.

If I seem too enthusiastic, I encourage you to ask any of the nearly 300 in attendance that afternoon, and I am sure they will agree with this opinion.

Thank you, Paige, for a delightful afternoon and an exciting glimpse of the promise yet to come from another amazing Cape Girardeau talent.

MIKE DUMEY, Cape Girardeau