The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra's principal flutist brings a peerless grace to both the transcriptions and the original works for flute in this program."You might expect the inherently bright quality of the flute to work against music that sounds so darkly beautiful when played on clarinet or, especially, viola. But the subtle, prismatic glow of Skala's tone and, above all, the deep warmth of her phrasing matches just about anything those other instruments can achieve in these works. This is nowhere more apparent than in her account of the Andante of the F minor Sonata, with its bittersweet, steadily measured tread. In between the Brahms pieces is a lovely performance of Schubert's Theme and Variations on 'Trockne Blume,' a masterwork…. Krieger proves to be a sympathetic partner, matching Skala's flair for spinning song-like phrases and making the most of dynamic contrasts."—Baltimore Sun
"Skala's performance of the Schubert Variations by itself would be worth investing in the recording.... The Brahms' sonatas (Op. 120) are works demanding depth of emotion and absolute control. In this performance, the sonority of the clarinet is not missed and the flawless technique Skala brings to these works makes them sound full and complete. Her playing on the Schubert is a revelation.... The brilliance of her playing, both in blazing technique and in interpretation is dazzling in all respects…. From the dark and somber opening to the triumphal ending, this recording represents the best in contemporary flute performance."—Flute Network
