Opera
'Majella Cullagh brings to Zaira a lovely, clear soprano that recalls the young Freni.'
The Observer
'The versatile British baritone Alastair Miles is outstanding.'
The Guardian

'... based on Walter Scott's Heart of Midlothian... It's certainly worth this kind of showcase, especially with a singer of Nuccia Focile's allure in the main role...'
International Record Review
'The contribution by the Academy of St Martin in the Fields is most worthy, as is that of the Geoffrey Mitchell Choir. To all, Giuliano Carella brings a sure touch.'
MusicalCriticism.com

'Mercadante rises above the historical eccentricities of his anonymous librettist to provide music that is a sheer delight from start to finish.'
31 July 2010
MusicWeb International
'After playing this one disc selection from Sofonisba many times from delight and enjoyment, I ask the rhetorical question: why are Paër’s works not better known.'
The Guardian

'Ricci's orchestral writing is remarkably original, and he has a fine sense of theatre.'
Ricci's Corrado d'Altamura

MusicalCriticism.com 'Anticipation is always great for new Opera Rara releases, because the mixture of excellent studio conditions and superb packaging always makes for a luxury product. On top of that, we get to know interesting works from a fascinating period of music history – ones which have fallen by the wayside, either because of poor librettos, difficult performance conditions at the premiere or a negative critical reception.’