Nola Richardson's 'Substantial Powers" Revealed in English Song Concert With A Golden Wire

Soprano Nola Richardson was acclaimed for her performance in a recent concert of 17th-century English music with A Golden Wire at New York City's Blue Gallery: "spellbinding acting-singing in several selections, beginning with Purcell's mini-drama 'Bess of Bedlam.' [In 'The Blessed Virgin's Expostulation'] Richardson called on her substantial powers of melisma, melodic agility, and timbre modulation to evoke Mary's desperation....In contrast, John Blow's "We all to conquering beauty bow" came across like a charming folk song. I closed my eyes and could readily imagine Joan Baez singing it. These musicians made what they do look easy. It's not" -- Blogcritics.