September 20, 2014 | Review on Gramophone

Classical Music Awards Issue 2014

by David Vickers

“This survey of Vivaldi kicks off with a gutsy yet articulate performance of the Concerto for two trumpets RV 537, featuring flamboyant playing from the soloists; it serves as a thrilling overture that leads directly into the spectacular trumpet-laden aria ‘Con palme ed allori’ from Teuzzone (which features some extraordinary embellishments by Kristina Hammarström). A broad range of Vivaldi’s theatrical output for Venice, Mantua and Verona is represented by a pleasingly varied selection of six arias from four different operas and another two arias by Giacomelli from the pasticcio Bajazet (including the striking lament ‘Sposa son disprezzata’, perhaps the recital’s sentimental highlight). Fruity oboes contribute to ‘La gloria del tuo sangue’ (Teuzzone).
Marcello Di Lisa’s astutely paced performances are packed with high-velocity extravagance [...], and ‘Sol da te, mio dolce amore’ (Orlando furioso) attains valuably soft delicacy thanks to the fine work from the flautist Luigi Lupo, tender supporting strings and Hammarström’s emotive singing.”
David Vickers, Gramophone, Classical Music Awards Issue 2014