“This was a concert, perhaps more than any other to date by this orchestra, which was characterized by impressive balance throughout; brilliant solo playing by many of its first chair players in every section; lustrous string sounds in every register; and broad and mature interpretations from their fine conductor, Paul Anthony McRae.
These were extraordinary performances.”
“I have never heard the Greensboro Symphony play better than they did last night. Never. Not in twenty years of attending their concerts. Their sound has a richness, a solidity, a tonal sheen, and a technical panache that is quite remarkable. It is a real tribute to their first class conductor, Paul Anthony McRae.”
“The Florida Philharmonic Orchestra began its 38th season at War Memorial Auditorium Tuesday night with no indication of the customary struggle to get back in top form. Most of the evening, Paul Anthony McRae kept the orchestra in shining fettle and gave a good account of himself as its acting artistic director.
He opened the concert with a crisp and spirited performance of Berlioz’s quicksilver Overture to Benvenuto Cellini, notable for the assured playing of the violins and smooth integration of woodwinds and brass. Then McRae turned his attention to giving Jose Feghali, last season’s Van Cliburn Competition winner, a supple and secure accompaniment.”
“I find the honest, intelligent performances to be heard on this beautifully engineered disc greatly satisfying and his band (English Chamber Orchestra) plays for Paul Anthony McRae as well as they play for the more illustrious people who often stand before them.”
“A musically and sonically vibrant release like this one is just the thing to make listeners on this side of the Atlantic aware of Paul Anthony McRae’s considerable talents.”