Critic’s Choice

The current release finds [Soile Isokoski] working with countryman Okko Kamu and a resilient, glistening Helsinki Philharmonic on [Richard Strauss’] rarely-heard Three Hymns (Op.71), plus more familiar excerpts from Der Rosenkavalier, Ariadne auf Naxos and Capriccio.

Isokoski’s voice remains in pristine shape, its steadiness and accuracy of pitch a joy to hear. Ariadne’s two monologues show exhilaratingly steady and controlled vocalism over a wide range. The Helsinki ensemble’s…admirably clean playing is persuasive. Isokoski sounds glowing and apt—and more emotionally transported…

Voor het onvolprezen Ondine nam de Finse stersopraan Soile Isokoski al twee albums op met werken van Richard Strauss. De nadruk ligt nu op opera-aria’s uit Ariadne auf Naxos, Der Rosenkavelier en de complete slotscène van Capriccio – opera’s waarin Isokoski indruk maakte in de grote operahuizen van de wereld. Veel minder uitgevoerd zijn de Drei Hymnen, gecomponeerd in 1921, maar pas voor het eerst uitgevoerd in 1931. Strauss’ keuze voor de bombastische teksten van Hölderlin werd politiek uitgelegd, maar de hymnen wijzen tevens vooruit naar de Vier letzte Lieder en verdienen het om vaker gehoord te worden, zeker door dé Strauss-sopraan van de laatste decennia. © 2012 PlatoMania

…Three Hymns/Opera Arias featuring another expert Strauss interpreter, Finnish soprano Soile Isokoski whose powerful and luminous voice soars over the Helsinki Philharmonic in excerpts from Ariadne auf Naxos, Der Rosenkavalier and Capriccio. Although the Three Hymns, Op.71 is a work rarely recorded because of its almost excessive demands for the soloist, Isokoski clearly has the fortitude to carry off a brilliant performance. © 2012 The WholeNote Read complete review

…we have this superb collection of music of Strauss that includes excerpts from three of her signature roles: Der Rosenkavalier, Capriccio, and Ariadne auf Naxos. We also have Three Hymns, three songs about the power of love to texts by Friedrich Holderlin composed in 1921. It is remarkable that these beautiful songs are seldom performed—they would have been perfect for Leonie Rysanek. Isokoski’s singing is equally radiant, and it is a pleasure to experience her confidence and beauty of tone in their very difficult music. Audio is just fine. An important issue. © 2012 ClassicalCDReview.com Read complete review