Press Materials and Reviews

Ars Lyrica in the News

 
 
 

20/21 Season

Ars Lyrica’s retooled season offers fresh musical experiences
–Steven Brown, Arts and Culture Texas

Ars Lyrica launches new season with harpsichord grudge match
–Lawrence Elizabeth Knox, Houston Chronicle

Don your pajamas or ball gown for this stylish Houston online gala
–Steven Devadanam, Culturemap Houston

Ars Lyrica Houston goes for Baroque with online events
–Lawrence Elizabeth Knox, Houston Chronicle

 

Visual Media

Reviews of Recordings

Heart and Soul: Devotional Works from the German Baroque for Voice (July 2018)

"Listeners who enjoy the countertenor voice will find a good deal to admire in Ryland Angel's interpretations, for not only does he sing with a sweet and penetrating sound but gives keen attention to the meaning of the text and the varied affects of the pieces... fine, sonorous pieces ... played sweetly... the vocal element is the main attraction here and the reason most listeners will want the disc. The disc serves as a good representative survey of 17th-century German devotional music, with fine recorded sound."  
–Fanfare

Domenico Scarlatti: La Dirindina (January 2012)

“Such theatrical works have become the calling card of Ars Lyrica and its artistic director, Matthew Dirst. They seem to evoke inspired performances by the group.”
–Charles Ward, Houston Chronicle

Full Reviews:

Hasse: Marc’Antonio e Cleopatra (January 2010)
2010 GRAMMY nomination

“…a thrilling performance that glows in its quieter moments and sparkles with vitality.” 
–Early Music America

Full Reviews:

Alessandro Scarlatti: Euridice dall’Inferno / La Concettione della Beata Virgine (March 2009)

“...impassioned performance of strongly characterized and eloquent music.” “...played with exemplary skill and taste.”
–John Vickers, Gramophone

“It's heartening to see Ars Lyrica enhancing its reputation with the release of this recording. Long may they keep the Baroque fires burning, not just in Houston but now around the world!”
–St. John Flynn, KUHF

"The range and quality of Dirst’s creations are as remarkable as the relentless ease with which he brings it all off."
–CounterPunch

Full Reviews: