Ars Lyrica Recordings
Selected reviews
Johann Adolf Hasse: Marc’Antonio e Cleopatra (GRAMMY Nominee for Best Opera 2011)
“Dirst leads a disciplined, well-balanced performance…fluent and poised.”
—Fanfare
“a thrilling performance that glows in its quieter moments and sparkles with vitality.”
—Early Music America
“exquisite.”
—American Record Guide
Domenico Scarlatti: La Dirindina
“This release should bring joy to any fan of Domenico Scarlatti. The three vocalists… are perfectly cast [and] the orchestra plays with engaging energy and dynamic contrast.”
—Early Music America
“The first note of Richard Savino’s mandolin blooming above the dulcet chords of the lute-stop of Dirst’s harpsichord brought a smile not just to my face, but also to my soul.”
—David Yearsley, CounterPunch
Alessandro Scarlatti: Euridice dall’Inferno / La Concettione della Beata Vergine
“sensitive…excellent, impressive.”
—Early Music America
“The continuo group plays with sensitivity and Melissa Givens gives an impassioned performance of strongly characterized and eloquent music.”
—Gramophone