'Even those who normally resist opera in translation should try it: Jeremy Sams's lively translation is so refreshing in the context of a performance outstandingly well cast. David Parry has established his Mozart credentials in earlier issues, and his timing of the comedy here is impeccable'The balance with the soloists is excellent too: words are clear, notably from the men, and the complex plot is well conveyed''
Gramophone
'There's thrilling modern-instrument playing from the Philharmonia and Parry holds the whole thing together, doubling as pianist for the accompanied recitative.'
Classic FM 'Disc of the Month' October 2004
'The latest addition to Chandos' Opera in English series finds Parry and his singers on lively form. Their delight at perfoming this incomparable music, and in their own language (Jeremy Sam's racy translation), shines out.'
Sunday Times
'I don't think a Figaro recording has ever made me laugh so much. David Parry paces the drama shrewdly and always ecourages true, firm singing from his cast' If you think you are allergic to opera in translation, this delightful performace could make you think again.'
The Telegraph
As a performance, it is on a very high level – closer to the lofty peak than you might expect. And because the singers’ diction is crisp and the recorded sound clear, you can actually understand virtually all of the text Jeremy Sams’s incisive translation. The result is a performance that communicates with incomparable directness, and for those listeners to whom that matters, this set is essential.
Fanfare
'The bafflingly complex plot that Da Ponte developed from Beaumarchais's play is wonderfully clarified, and the fun of the piece is heightened by hearing the text in English, a point very well made in David Parry's sparkling performance with the Philharmonia, using Jeremy Sam's lively translation.'
The Guardian
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