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Soprano Christina Lamberti is an alumnus of the San Francisco Opera Center training program. She created a considerable stir in West Coast musical circles when she replaced Carol Vaness as Elettra in the San Francisco Opera's production of Mozart's Idomeneo. From the first tones of 'L'altra notte in fondo al mare' from Mefistofele by Arrigo Boito (1842-1918) Ms Lamberti revealed a lyrico-spinto soprano of size and depth. Her ringing high notes, exquisite pianissimos, and voluptuous voice brought the great Renata Tebaldi to mind! Her shaping of the vocal line was truly in the Grand Manner. Fleischman's accompaniment was rather stiff, lacking in Italianate warmth. He was much more successful in capturing the spirit of Verdi. Ms Lamberti's performance of 'Morro, ma prima in grazia' from Un ballo in maschera was exquisitely molded. Every note and phrase soared on the arc of Verdi's grand line. Ms Lamberti has the potential to be a great Verdi soprano! Her version of 'O mio babbino caro' from Puccini's Gianni Schicchi was pure golden toned, vocal velvet. With her extraordinary talents, a great career awaits Ms Lamberti. This is the kind of soprano voice the operatic world has been praying for!

With superbly musical playing and stylistically informed leadership, the Renaissance Chamber Orchestra is a wonderful new symphonic chamber ensemble. Christina Lamberti is a major operatic talent. A stellar performance!