Where Handel describes a powerful woman profoundly affected by specific events, Schäfer presents a glamour puss in the grip of a mood disorder. Performed at A=441 (a discomforting nudge higher than standard modern concert pitch), Alcina's otherworldliness is intensified, particularly in the 'Entrée des songes funestes'. Despite the extreme altitude, Schäfer's ashes of roses voice beguiles.

…Schäfer conveys a rewarding experience of the composer's music: she sings eight arias from Alcina with audible integrity, emotional feeling and dramatic intelligence. The Berlin Baroque Soloists provide unfussy and tasteful accompaniments and orchestral interludes.