Kathleen Battle & Jean-Pierre Rampal in Concert
Before Kathleen Battle became a diva of monstrous proportions, she was a musical talent of intelligence and delicacy. This recording reminds us of the charm and brilliance of her innate talent. Her light soubrette is an enchanting compliment to Rampal's magical flute, as they weave the musical fabrics of Handel, Rameau, Saint-Saens, and Bishop. A shining example of excellent musical camaraderie is given by accompanists Garrett, Newman, and Ritter. Battle's voice and temperament are a lovely fit for Purcell's docile melancholy. The listener is also granted such juicy treats as two pieces by Albert Roussel and four delectable Catalonian morsels by Fernando J. Obradors. Sheer beauty.--Barbara Eisner Bayer