‘It is difficult to pick out a particular highlight, there are so many of them’ (Classic CD) ‘A splendidly enjoyable disc. Kirkby is in top-notch form’ (Hi-Fi News) ‘This CD is appealing on every plane. It’s certainly one of my discs for 1997’ (Gramophone) ‘Right on cue for the bull market in Handel operatic stock, The Rival Queens conquer all before them. A right royal feast!’ (Classic CD) ‘The voices contrast well, and their owners, as well as The Brandenburg Consort, perform this wonderful music with style and an intense sense of affection’ (BBC Music Magazine) ‘Immensely enjoyable’ (Goldberg) ‘A delight … this is singing of brilliance’ (Fanfare, USA) ‘Kirkby’s talent for matching brilliant coloratura with dramatic urgency remains unparalleled … a compelling interpretation of rarely heard masterpieces, this recording is the ideal present for anyone open to Handel’s dramatic compositions