Conductor Susanna Mälkki draws out deftly the music's chilling juxtapositions; low oppressive tones murmur but are suddenly lacerated by wailing strings.
“Conductor Susanna Mälkki draws out deftly the music’s chilling juxtapositions; low oppressive tones murmur but are suddenly lacerated by wailing strings.”
“Everything unfolds at the same, unvaried pace, and her unfailingly beautiful orchestral music, full of shimmering sounds and tantalising shards of melody, never quickens or takes control to heighten the drama, even though it’s all beautifully realised by the Royal Opera orchestra under Susanna Mälkki.”
“Susanna Mälkki conducts the Royal Opera Orchestra with total authority: Saariaho has been well served by all, and she has created a piece of modern music-drama worthy to stand in the rich tradition that stretches from Monteverdi to Britten and beyond. It is a truly great opera for our troubled times.”
“Susanna Mälkki is the assured conductor…”
“Susanna Malkki conducts, and you’ll never hear so much radiance from so many shades of grey.”