Because the art song is typically performed by one singer with one instrumental accompanist, pianist John Chernoff was important in Harrington’s plans. “Having someone as intuitive and immediate as John makes him a great partner for performing this kind of repertoire, because he’s absolutely in tune with every nuance the poetry demands,” Harrington said. “It’s a very delicate interplay between singer and accompanist, so I was happy to learn John was available.”

As for the recital being scheduled during Valentine’s Day week, Harrington confessed it’s a coincidence, but believes it’s appropriate. “If you think of love as being a relationship of you and the world, or you and your spiritual self as well as relationships between people, then this program has a Valentine mood. And of course there are traditional love songs, since love is one of our strongest emotions, and the one that inspires poetry and song. It’s also universal—so come on out, all ye lovesick fools!”