Sofonisba (highlights) (2006)

Gramophone Editor's Choice, januari 2007: "Paer (1771-1839) has been placed rather unappealingly as a composer "of the interregnum between Cimarosa and Rossini" (Stendhal) and as one for whom "symmetry of phrase and balance of voices are of supreme importance" (Commons). But one sits up in the opening bars and is kept attentive till the last. Opera Rara's advocacy of a neglected composer proves once again to be well founded. Of the many attractions here not the least is the quality of the singing. Jennifer Larmore, Rebecca Evans and Paul Nilon are cast in roles which demand a high degree of virtuosity, and the pre-conditions (such as good tone, even production and an expressive handling of language) are taken for granted. All are excellent, Larmore with her forthright style well suited to this confrontational heroine, Nilon with a sympathetic timbre which can ring out brightly when needed, Evans in the role of Warrior King, summoning up reserves of power and authority. Mirco Palazzi is a dignified Scipione."