With singers of such quality as Siobhan Stagg and Roderick Williams, one would expect this one-off performance presented by the MSO to be pleasing. It was more than that, however.

The friendly rapport between the European-based Australian soprano and English baritone was one reason why this recital was such a delightful, relaxed experience. They have been touring Australia both separately and together over the past month, appearing most recently in Fauré’s Requiem for the MSO.

For this, their last outing before flying out, Williams in particular was engaging and funny during occasional chats.

The 90-minute program (without interval) of French and English art songs, opera and musical numbers was also a factor, as it generally bypassed the obvious yet was always approachable. Perhaps the late Sunday morning showtime on the first day of spring also had something to do with the positive mood, and the venue, too.

Usually reserved for ABC and MSO recordings and rehearsals, the Iwaki Auditorium is somewhat informal and a novelty for regular concert goers. What this space lacks in atmospheric lighting and interior design its excellent acoustics more than makes up for.

With Stagg wearing a hot-pink gown, Williams a blue...