This fine duo has evidently done extensive research to assemble this innovative and attractive programme...Grimaldi’s sweet-toned voice is often hugely appealing, and she’s excellently matched by Bushakevitz. Although I wanted more colouristic variety and expressive range, this delightful recital is a must for all French song-lovers.

With her attractive, full-bodied voice, fine sense of contour in the vocal lines and beautiful French, Grimaldi reveals what’s there in songs that existed not necessarily for the theatre but for their own sake.

This lovely recital of songs by female composers of the Belle Époque is studded with gems, from the irrepressible sensuality of Cécile Chaminade's 'Nice la belle' to Augusta Holmès's uncanny 'Les lavandières' (where two ghostly washerwomen give Liszt’s 'drei Zigeuner' a run for their money in the spine-chilling stakes). Don't be put off by some slight rawness up top from Grimaldi in the early stretches, as thereafter her lightish but richly-coloured soprano falls comfortably on the ear and her way with words is always engaged and engaging.