The Summer 2020 issue of Opera Canada features a major recommendation of Florentine Opera’s world premiere recording of Carlisle Floyd’s Prince of Players:
“Floyd’s score is in line with the style he’s used for opera throughout his career. it’s colourful and atmospheric with considerable melodic invention and a judicious use of dissonance. … it all works well with the story and the over- all impression is of a very well crafted piece, musically and dramatically. The performances are very good. There is excellent chemistry between Kynaston, sung by American baritone Keith Phares, and Hughes, sung by Gritish soprano Kate Royal. His lyric baritone works well with her bright soprano. … the Milwaukee Symphony seems entirely at home with Floyd’s idiom and William Boggs co-ordinates stage and pit effectively. the recording was made live in Uihlein Hall at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts in Milwaukee. it’s very transparent and well balanced. … This is a new opera of real substance. It combines accessibility with substantial musical and dramatic depth. The recording does it justice and is highly recommended.”
—John Gilks, Opera Canada
Full review in the Summer 2020 issue of Opera Canada