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Haydn: Piercing Eyes
14 English Canzonettas
with William Lewis (Albany Records)
“Livengood has a rich, dark mezzo. Her diction is a great asset; the words are so clear you seldom have to glance at the texts. She sings with deep feeling and
concentration.” American Record Guide
“It is the honey-rich tones of Mezzo-Soprano Victoria Livengood that spark the most interest in this unusual song collection. Frequently compared to Rise Stevens;
with a fuller voice than Cecilia Bartoli and clearer tones than Denyce Graves, Livengood is certainly poised on the edge of superstardom in the world of Opera. Livengood
uses the depth and clarity of her voice to full effect in “Piercing Eyes”, where with simple piano accompaniment by William Lewis, she exquisitely interprets Hunter
and Haydn canzonettas. A fine actress as well as a singer, Livengood evokes the intense longing necessary for “A Pastoral Song” and “O Tuneful Voice”, and the barely
contained sensuality of “Pleasing Pain”. She conveys both sorrow (“Despair”) and joy (“The Mermaid's Song”) with outstanding facility. Victoria Livengood certainly
breathes life and emotion into each and every song.” Applause! Magazine
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