A "riveting" performance with the Met Opera Orchestra at Carnegie Hall

“In a riveting account of Rossini’s solo cantata “Giovanna d’Arco” (as orchestrated by Salvatore Sciarrino), the mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato showed why hers is a name to conjure in bel canto repertory. Her technique was precise, her tone rich and even, but what you noticed most was the specific emotional weight she imparted to each word and sentiment.”

Steve Smith – The New York Times

“There is not a better singer before the public today. A few as good, maybe, but none better. In her Rossini, she was sweet and endearing, scalding and imperious, as required. Technical fireworks were almost incidental.

The mezzo sang two arias from La clemenza di Tito, that crowning opera seria. If Mozart is the true test of all singing—and I think he is—DiDonato more than passed. She exhibited a priceless combination: purity and fearlessness. You sometimes get one in Mozart without the other. DiDonato was thoroughly Mozartean, and thoroughly unafraid. She put blood in the music while retaining Classical taste. Even in the most treacherous and exposed music—indeed, unaccompanied—she showed tremendous control and poise.”

Jay Nordlinger – New Criterion

“But even those who seemed battered by the Carter came alive when mezzo Joyce DiDonato took the stage. Stunning in a red gown, she held listeners in the palm of her hand, perfectly enhanced by Levine and the orchestra. The program highlighted her dramatic readings, as Donizetti’s MARIA STUARDA and Rossini’s LA DONNA DEL LAGO have recently done in full stagings.”

Richard Sasanow – Broadway World