Kate Rockstrom
Kate Rockstrom regularly reviews classical music for Readings. She also performs as a flautist, as well as writing about music and books.
Review — 28 Mar 2012
Galileo Project, Talfelmusik Baroque Orchestra
There are a lot of good Baroque orchestras out there that are really making their mark in the world of recordings. The Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra’s new release features a CD…
Review — 28 Mar 2012
The Rake's Progress, Stravinsky
I loved the use of the odd props in this production. It creates a sense of the art of the time, off kilter and out of proportion. Opera in English…
Review — 28 Mar 2012
Stiffelio, Verdi
Oh Domingo, how we love you! Not only one of the greatest opera soloists of the 20th Century, he is a consummate actor and operatic performer. He plays the torn…
Review — 11 Apr 2012
Mozart, Magic Flute
Mozart’s operas are constantly performed around the world and the Magic Flute jockeys with the Marriage of Figaro to be the favourite. In this performance from the Royal Opera House…
Review — 18 Mar 2012
Shower Songs
Who likes a little bit of schmaltz occasionally? I certainly do, and schmaltz I can sing along with is my favourite. This new compilation from ABC Classics is a mix…
Review — 16 May 2012
Verdi: La Traviata, Sutherland
Verdi’s opera, La Traviata really needs know introduction, nor does the star on this recording, Dame Joan Sutherland. Her much lamented passing in 2010 has encouraged the re-release of some…
Review — 18 Mar 2012
Chopin Nocturnes, Ewa Kupiec
The Nocturnes are not only some of the most well known works for solo piano, but are some of the most loved. Every pianist has recorded it and if they…
Review — 7 Mar 2012
Music of Vladimir Martynov, Kronos Quartet
I find every recording of the Kronos Quartet somehow fills up that little hole inside me somewhere that needs philosophical consolation. Without words they convey integrity in their musicianship and…
Review — 29 Feb 2012
The Sopranos (Compilation album)
Yes, we have another compilation of soprano arias, from some of the greatest singers the 20th and 21st Century have ever seen. So why should you get this one over…
Review — 29 Feb 2012
Lully: Atys
My first thought when looking at this production of Lully’s Atys, was, ‘Ooo! Pretty!’ I know it is terrible to base things on face value, but this first impression was…