Nola Richardson and James Reese Recognized for "Impeccable" Performances

In a rave review of a rare performance of Domenico Scarlatti's challenging Stabat Mater by Seraphic Fire, South Florida Classical Review singled out two Schwalbe artists:  "Domenico Scarlatti wrote his Stabat Mater for ten voices in 1715 as he navigated the stylistic changes between the Renaissance and Baroque. That is fully evident in his setting of the Stabat Mater. By turns austere and grandly ornamental, the work is powerful and deeply moving. It is also a minefield for the performers who dare to attempt it. Scarlatti’s melodic inspiration is on full display as his penchant for writing at the extremes of vocal range. The singers mastered the intricacies of Scarlatti’s reverent creation with impeccable intonation, accuracy and precision....In the opening section, Nola Richardson’s soprano floated through the sanctuary to stunning effect in her top notes. James Reese’s fine lyric tenor stood out in solo moments." Read the full review, below.